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JOURNAL OF 
CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

A GLOUCESTER SEA-CAPTAIN 
1828- 1846 




BRIG "CORPORAL TRIM" 
Solomon H. Davis, Master 



JOURNAL OF y 

CAPTAIN SOLOMON H." DAVIS 

A GLOUCESTER SEA-CAPTAIN 

1828- 1846 



Privately Printed 
1922 



Grs-4-0 



ARRANGED AND PRINTED BY 

THE PLIMPTON PRESS 

NORWOOD 

MASS 

U-S 

A 






VvUb 






FOREWORD 

As Gloucester's Three Hundredth Anniversary 
approaches, an increased interest is awakened in 
the men and women of her past who helped to 
make her name and fame secure. At this time, 
the Journal of one of her Sea Captains may have 
some interest for those who would learn of the 
extensive foreign trade of that city one hundred 
years ago. 

Captain Solomon Davis, the writer of this 
Journal, was the son of a sea captain. The fron- 
tispiece shows the Corporal Trim^ commanded by 
Captain Elias Davis, the father of Captain Solo- 
mon Davis, standing off the coast of Spain. On 
this trip, he took his little son, Solomon, on his 
first ocean voyage. 

As his Journal shows. Captain Solomon Davis was 
a young man of wide reading, a poet, and a philos- 
opher. At this time he was twenty-five years 
of age. Shortly after his voyage to South Amer- 
ica, in 1828, he married Miss Mary Babson of his 
native town, the young lady who was so con- 
stantly in his thoughts during this voyage. Her 
brother, John James Babson, was the historian of 
Gloucester. 

L. D. C. 
[5] 



JOURNAL OF 
CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

A GLOUCESTER SEA-CAPTAIN 
1828- 1846 



JOURNAL 

Brig " Corporal Trim " from Gloucester, 

TOWARDS Valparaiso, Solomon 

H. Davis, Master 

^oth Sept. 1828 

We vainly ask the scenes we leave behind, 
When we by other scenes are more confined; 
The home, that blesses and endears. 
The lively heart, that warms and cheers; 
The blushing smiles, that charm our fears 

And woes dispel; 
But prompt our grief; but swell our tears 

When sounds — Farewell ! 
The morning breeze, that rustles by, 
And waves the dewy rose-bush dry; 
Whilst in a low and pensive sigh 

My accents dwell; 
Seem but to sympathize — whilst I 

Proclaim — Farewell ! 

I never found friends so kind 

As I've found friends at home — but the word is — 
away — 

[9] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Then all my good friends look up, and be gay. 

On, on we are speeding, 

While swiftly receding 
The brown shore of Gloucester in distance grows blue; 

And that gem of earth's treasures — 

The scene of past pleasures, 
The land of my childhood — fades fast from my view; 
But I've 'scaped from the trammels — the word is — 

away — 
Then x x, my sweet one, look up, and be gay. 

SUNSET — FIRST TIME 

Till twilight's dewy tints deceived her eye 
And fairy forests fringed the evening sky. 

Soft o'er the mountain's purple brow. 
Meek twilight draws her shadows grey; 
From tufted wood and valleys low. 
Light's magic colors steal away. 

How many bards have sung of youth; 
When all was novelty and truth; 
And decked in garb of fairy dress 
Its days of light and lovehness. 

Revere this picture — time will show 
Its flitting shades of joy and woe; 
And though its smiles are bright to-day. 
Tomorrow sees them fade away. 
[10] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

$th Oct. 

There is something awfully sublime in a Saturday 
evening on the day the Almighty finished His work. 
*He made the world and all there is in it, and on 
Sunday He rested from His labors. 

But this Saturday eve is delightful, 'the sky is un- 
clouded' our bark is ghding along over the water, 
with slow, but firm pace, the breeze is auspicious, but 
not bountiful, the sea sparkles and the stars shine 
with elegant transparency and the numerous dolphin 
appear to be in their evening gambols. Such a sight 
to me is splendid, but how can it be beautiful? I enjoy 
them in a degree, for while I am engaged in such 
sights on this sweet Saturday eve, I think of more 
than the surrounding scenery — My Home, my 
Friends again are there. With what pleasure does 
the thoughts of home fill my enraptured imagination! 

7th Oct. 

Commenced reading ' The Three Perils of Woman ' 
— a dull beginning, but hope it will prove more inter- 
esting. 2 vols. 

8th Oct. 

Find 'The Three Perils of Woman' very interesting, 
but not very sentimental — undoubtedly very true, 
however — finished the love part — next comes deceit 
and falsehood. 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

gth Oct. 

Calm evening. Grey twilight advances, expands and 
recedes without a breath from the vaulted heavens. 
The stars break through the haze as if to dispel the 
unwelcome visitor, and they finally accompHsh their 
desired object. Unconscious of their duty the sails 
lay in folds against the masts, — the vessel is unman- 
ageable. Oh, what a melancholy theme, — quite dif- 
ferent from my feelings, however, for I feel in great 
hopes to have a breeze before midnight, everything 
bids fair for such an event. 

Finished 'The Three Perils of Woman' — the deceit- 
ful part — believe it relates to some of the sex — but 
not all. The latter peril being jealousy — a very 
natural one, and almost indispensable to Love. 

Oh, the joys from women spring. 
Source of bliss and purest peace, 
Eden could no comfort bring 
Till fair woman showed her face. 

i^th Oct. 

Read "Hobomok" — found it interesting, but in some 
parts very superstitious. Miss Francis of Duxbury 
(authoress). 

My old friend and chronometer refused to do her 
accustomed good offices and my bidding. She always 
told me the time of day to a second at home and 

, [12] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

abroad, and at sea never failed to tell me my situa- 
tion and longitude to a mile. It is hard to lose a 
friend, but such a long, tried, faithful friend as my 
watch, seems more than many others, and is certainly 
painful. However, I must cherish and protect her 
"in sickness and health," but if she proves stubborn, 
I must cast her off forever. 

igth Oct. 

Read 'Love without a doubt' — very good. Surely 
a woman ought not only to awaken love, but to feel 
it in all its force, before she ventures to profess it 
before God and man. Read "Emily; or A Wife's 
Affection" — very interesting; but somewhat pathetic. 
It is interesting with what facility, we accommodate 
all the scenes of nature to our state of feehng. 

20tb Oct. 

What a delightful evening ! — not a fish, bird, nor 
human being, to be seen around us but ourselves; nor 
appearance of anything but sky and water. The dis- 
tant view of twilight, tinged with red, purple, green, 
grey, yellow, and blue, serve to beautify the scene, 
and render it more romantic. Like the evening twi- 
light, my thoughts are bright and distant; but not 
Hke twilight — of many and variegated hue — my 
mind is now at home among my dear friends — as far 
as remembrance can extend. The moon is on her 
route to the meridian — the clouds seem conscious of 

[13] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

her approach, and prepare the way for Her Majesty 
— the Queen of Night — to pass without obstruction. 
The dark blue sea is smooth, and not much troubled, 
except by the vessel's progress through — making reg- 
ular, but not deep, furrows — turning the water over 
with her prow as she passes; but apparently without 
motion. The breeze is very light — consequently, our 
progress must be slow; but as we are in a calm lati- 
tude, must be satisfied with a little, 'till more comes, 
which I hope will be soon. Mackerel sky, and other 
signs are visible, and, if I must be brought to believe 
in signs, my hopes will undoubtedly be realized ere 
long. My mind is almost absorbed with anticipa- 
tions; but I hope, like the moon in her present situa- 
tion, reahzed anticipations have not arrived at their 
meridian ; although I have seen many happy days — 
yet I hope happier ones are in store for me. 

2ith Oct. 

My sister Polly's birthday. Success to her — the 
partner of my youthful days — and every blessing, 
granted by Almighty God, await her — may the at- 
mosphere of her mind be always so pure, that a pass- 
ing cloud has no power to disturb it. Heavenly 
dreams — peaceful slumbers — happy realities. 



C'4] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Oct. list 

TO MY SISTER MARY, ON HER BIRTHDAY. 

What is earthly happiness? — 
A silly poet's theme — 
And anything as shadowless 
As an infant's dream. 
And can I wish thee aught 
But joy in thy career — 
Each lengthened moment fraught 
With everything to cheer. 

I wish that all thou hopest 
To crown thy closing hours. 
May come in long succession — 
Wreathed in thornless flowers; 
I wish thee lengthened years — 
Thy life a cloudless day — 
And pale misfortune's tears 
With joy be washed away. 
I wish thy sparkling stream 
Of life may ever rush, 
With peace on every wave 
And joy in every gush; 
Thy beating heart, as now. 
With gladness overleap. 
And pleasure, on thy brow, 
Unwrinkled smoothness keep; 

[15] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

I wish that thou may'st live 

In peace — a lengthened span — 

Thy closing moments ending 

As sweet as they began. 

At last, may thy setting sun be glorious, 

As sunset on the sea. 

I wish you all this 

And as much as possible, — Polly. 



22nd Oct. 

Favorite piece — particular verses — the whole com- 
mitted to memory, when a school boy. Apropos 

I am monarch of all I survey, 
My right there is none to dispute 
From the centre, all round to the sea; 
I am lord of the fowl and the brute. 



Oh! Solitude, where are thy charms. 
That Sages have seen in thy face? 
Better dwell in the midst of alarms. 
Than to dwell in this horrible place. 

Society, friendship, and love, 
Divinely bestowed upon Man; 
Oh! had I the wings of a dove 
I would often taste you again. 

C16] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Alex. Selkirk must have felt grand — some would say 
— , when he says "I am Monarch of all I survey," 
etc., but he next inquires "where are the charms of 
Sohtude?" I answer "In pleasing meditations and 
anticipations." It is true, however, he had rather an 
unpleasant field for meditation. Society, friendship, 
and love, are very pleasing themes to dwell upon; but 
that augurs nothing — we must sometimes be sepa- 
rated from them. 

2^rd Oct. 

Engaged reading "Flirtation" — very good — Hke it 
much — accords with my opinion generally of novels 
— fills one's head with proclamations. One pot of 
pickles gone — cake holds out very well. 

24.th Oct. 

Reading "Flirtation" — feel much interested with 
Lord Mowbray's account of his flirtation with Rosa- 
linda — think his opinion of Italian music, etc. very 
good. 

lyth Oct. 

Coasting along the craggy shores of the Islands of the 
lofty Cape Verde, whose top reaches the clouds. 
The islands of St. Vincent and St. Lucia are barren 
and uncultivated, and are not inhabited. They are 
not productive of anything, except some spontaneous 
grass, growing promiscuously about them. The other 

[17] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

parts of the islands appear to be made up of craggy 
rocks and barren ground. St. Vincent is 20 miles 
long and 7 broad; St. Lucia, 15 miles long and 5 
broad. Although the land here is so very high we 
could not see it farther than 20 miles owing to the 
haze. 

2Sth Oct. 

The island of Del-Fuego is very high — it's summit 
soars — not magnificently — above the clouds. Be- 
tween this and the island of St. Fago I found the 
weather very unsettled, and the wind baffling, and 
calm — very strong tide — rips, and, in fact, most every- 
thing to render the scene unpleasant. Nothing about 
these islands to please the eye — only the pleasure of 
passing them. 

2gth Oct. 

Finished reading " Flirtation " — turned out well — 
admire it. Lady Emily was charming — so was Lord 
Mowbray. Lady Frances was a flirting woman and 
received her deserts — hope every female like her, will 
receive the same, and as much more as possible. Eggs 
are all gone — don't hardly know how to get along 
without them. A small bird of the swallow variety 
flew on board — took lodgings, and departed in the 
morning. 

C18] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

30^6 Oct. 

Another of the feathered tribe came on board — a 
small one — ; seems to like us pretty well, and is un- 
willing to leave us. Ominous? Oh! how flamenation 
hot the weather is — too warm to move. From the 
Lat. 24 ° North, I find a dense — or rather hazy — at- 
mosphere — never observed it before ; but account for 
it only by the sun's always being between the tropics. 
Expect to find it much the same south of the Equa- 
tor. I think it would be better to keep about i ° to 
the westward of these islands — it is my impression 
that they are very susceptible to sudden changes, 
calm, etc. although I found but little until I got be- 
tween Fogo and St. Lago — then I had almost per- 
petual calm, copious and frequent rains — tremendous 
heavy thunder and sharp lighting. I was among 
these islands 40 hours — out of that time 18 hours 
between Fogo and St. Lago. 

^itb Oct. 

The bird still on board; walking about the deck, 
picking up the crumbs. I call him Constancy and let 
him promenade, and do anything he pleases. The 
squirrel seems jealous — poor Tibby — quite cross to- 
day. The weather is very warm, but it is quite natu- 
ral to suppose it would be. 

C19] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

1st Nov. 
Constancy has fled — perhaps he is fond of variety, 
and gone aboard the other vessel for a little while. 
He, however, sent his representative — one of the 
members of the booby family. He spends his nights 
with us, perched in the bellfry. He is not so good- 
natured as Constancy; but, as I am fond of variety, 
and not content with one subject long, of course, say 
anything for a change — bad company is better than 
none — sameness is intolerable. I hate ill-tempered 
people, myself; but, as I feel pretty good-natured, 
myself, methinks the booby will keep on friendly 
terms with me. I tell him to make himself at home 
while he stops; he nods assent, and seems to be 
thankful. Tired of old acquaintances — most want to 
see new faces. I hke strangers — hate confinement — 
cannot bear to be tied to one subject; am in good 
health, and better spirits. Oh! be joyful! just done 
singing "Bounding Billows." Begone, dull care — 
always contented — never forsaken. 

2nd Nov. 

See the clouds gather o'er us. 
The lighting is flashing; 
Loud rolls the hoarse thunder, 
The coarse rain is dashing. 

[20] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Then, sorrowful wanderer, 
Sigh not, nor weep; 
For Nature, though shrouded, 
Will wake from her sleep. 

The spring, proudly smiling. 
Shall all things revive; 
And gay bridal garments 
Of splendor shall give. 

But Man's chilling winter 
Is darksome and dim; 
For no second spring-tide 
E'er dawns upon him. 

The gloom of his evening 
Time dissipates never; 
His sun, when departed. 
Is vanished forever. 

This dreadful calm weather, so fit to feed the frenzy 
in the soul; here's room for meditation — e'en to 
madness; till the mind burst with thinking. 

4;tb Nov. 

Five weeks out and patience all gone. How perplex- 
ing! calm variable winds — worse to me than unre- 
quited love to a love-sick maiden — only the symp- 

[21] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

toms are different in some degree. My old partner 
seems loath to leave me; but if we had a breeze, he 
would have to look in vain for us. I don't feel quite 
so outrageous as I should, if there was no vessel in 
sight; for every body knows "misery likes company." 
Once in a while, think of home — sweet home — . 
Damp weather — bad for invalids — some people 
would call it. Rain-drops as big as a man's head — 
never saw such dews. 

4tb Nov. 
Between the squalls, reading "Westbrook Village." 
Poor Laura! all love too much of a good thing. An 
alarming discovery to-day — while getting the water 
from the boats, found Constancy, and his representa- 
tive both drowned in the water. I really felt grieved, 
but, hke everything else, it soon wore off. Oh! how 
peculiarly tedious the time rolls. Terrible thunder 
and Hghting, perpetual rains, and most incorrigible 
baffling airs and calms; but it appears I am not 
alone; for it appears another pilgarlic is added to the 
list. It is a most delightful sensation to be continu- 
ally as wet as a drowned rat. It is no use to talk — 
I've tried that; and as for thinking — given that up 
long ago — shockingly disastrously tedious. Ate 
hearty of baked-beans and apple-pudding, and pea 
soup. Tarnation warm to-day — wonder how the 
weather is between Lat. 42 and 43N — guess not so 
warm as here. 

[22] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

6tb Nov. 

Some of Mrs. Carey's accomplished daughter's paid 
me a visit to-day for the first time this fortnight; 
and by way of salutation, — as I was so glad to see 
them — , I shot one of them ; and if the rest had staid long 
enough, I should have killed them, too; and now, if 
the old woman comes, all I shall have to do is to put 
a silver ball in, and shoot her, too — gossiping old 
devil. Find a little time to read "Westbrook Village" 
— a thing of shreds and patches — most foolish love- 
affair that ever I heard of. "How small a portion of 
happiness is this world capable of bestowing, without 
the society of a beloved object, a feehng friend, who, 
with the participating smile, heightens our joys; or, 
when the heart is oppressed with woe, alleviate it's 
anguish by the balm of consolation!" External charms 
have, of themselves, little power to interest affection. 

yth Nov. 

Finished "Westbrook Village" — morally interesting, 
but not uncommonly amusing. "Who can find a 
virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. 
She looketh well to the ways of her household, and 
eateth not the bread of idleness." Allow myself to 
have a few serious thoughts on matrimony — haven't 
altered my opinion these three years. Precaution is 
certainly one of the greatest preventatives to unhappy 

[23] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

marriages; and as all marriages are not happy ones, 
it is very necessary to be guarded and observing be- 
fore such an important event. After marriage, there 
is no retracting. A good disposition and a mild tem- 
per in a female, are generally conducive to the happi- 
ness of men; but a bad disposition, and morose tem- 
per, are incorrigible in either man or woman. Better 
never marry than be unequally matched. 

Appearances seem to indicate a breeze; although 
the wind is a head, it is more comfortable than calm 
in these torrid regions. Somewhat cool this morning 

— make out to breathe without much fatigue. lo p.m. 

— unseasonable hour to be up — must walk the deck 
a Httle, and admire the beauties of the evening. 
Squally appearances — cool for the season, with rain. 

gtb Nov. 

Seem, and feel glad, to see my old partner, after an 
absense of a week — quite a confab before tea. He 
is some considerable out of the way in his reckoning 

— say 5 degrees. He thinks there is a N.W. current; 
but on that we differ very much. Confoundedly te- 
dious — shall have to break in upon some of my 
homeward patience very soon if the wind don't 
change. Hear no music but the chirping of a cricket 
now and then. 



[24] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

lOtb Nov. 

Oh, how tedious! Made only 3 miles to the south to- 
day. Calm, calm, how perplexing! but plenty of rain 

— no fear of drying up at any rate. 

We've ills enough — aye and to spare — 
Without anticipating sorrow; 
Then clear the brow of gloomy care. 
And always hope a bhssful morrow. 

The joys we might have, if we tried. 
Would smooth our path, howe'er uneven; 
Would make us here, if right applied. 
Enjoy a state, allied to Heaven. 

If Wisdom has her miseries to mourn. 
How can poor Folly live a happy Hfe? 

i^th Nov. 

Feel uncommonly well pleased to-day — wind very 
steady — S.E. trade wind — feel almost as happy to- 
day, as I should be at home with the same company 

— everything seems to look prosperous. I am think- 
ing now if I were at home, and had plenty of money, 
and could meet with anybody by the name of happi- 
ness, and that really deserved that appellation, I 
would resign everything to her shrine to be made her 
companion. I think no one happier than myself in 

C25] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

remembrance of my friends — believe no one has a 
greater share. Hope they will never have cause to 
reproach me. — pleasant reflections. 



i6tb Nov. 

Read some considerable in the Bible to-day. Think 
Jacob was very foolish for serving so long for Rachel, 
but I find every one is not of my opinion; it is well 
enough to be a httle condescending; but not so very 
accommodating as to allow every one to impose upon 
us with impunity. Cool for the season — fresh S.E. 
trade; — tight ship — have to put lOO buckets of 
water into the pumps every morning to keep her 
sweet; have done so all the passage — quite agree- 
able. I don't feel very serious to-day, although it is 
Sunday; but think if I were at home, that I should 
go to Meeting; at any rate, should Hke to hear a 
sermon on human depravity, and another on morality 
and vice contrasted; — from an able speaker and a 
man of talents. Beautiful sermon — nobody saved, 
everybody going to perdition, but we good folks. It 
is very strange that some people are not wiHing that 
others should go to Heaven as well as themselves, — 
but they all are. Hum! 

i8th Nov. 
Employed painting ship. 

[26] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

list Nov. 
My Mother — If there is one mortal feehng, free from 
the impurities of earthly frailty, that tells us in it's 
slightest breathing of it's celestial origin, it is that of 
a Mother's love — a Mother's chaste, overwhelming, 
and everlasting love for her children. The name of a 
Mother is our childhood's taHsman — our refuge, and 
our safeguard, in all our mimic misery; 't is the first 
half-formed word that falls from the babbhng tongue; 
the first idea that dawns on the opening mind; the 
first, the fondest, and the most lasting tie, in which 
affection can bind the heart of man. 'Tis not the 
selfish passion, depending on it's permanency on the 
reciprocation of advantages; but in it's sincerity, it 
casteth out itself, and centres but in the happiness of 
its object; and when the welfare of that object is at 
stake, it putteth away fear, and knoweth not weari- 
ness. It is not excited by form or feature; but rather 
by a happy perversion of perception — embues all 
things with imaginary beauty. It watches over our 
helpless infancy, with the ceaseless benignity of a 
guardian angel; anticipates every childish wish, hu- 
mors every wayward fancy, sooths every transient 
sorrow, sings our sweet lullaby to rest, and cradles us 
on its warm and throbbing breast; and when pain 
and sickness prey upon the fragile form, what medi- 
cine is there like a Mother's kisses? And when, 
launched on the wide ocean of a tempestuous world, 

C27] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

what eye gazes on our adventurous voyage, with half 
the eagerness of maternal fondness, amid the sad, yet 
not unpleasing, contest, of hopes, and fears, and deep 
anxieties? 

Yet it is not prosperity with her smile and beauty, 
that tries the purity and fervour of a mother's love; 
it is in the dark and dreary precincts of adversity; 
among the cold frowns of an unfeeling world, poverty 
and despair, in sickness and sorrow, that it shines 
with a brightness beyond mortahty; and, stifling the 
secret agonies of its own bosom, strives but to pour 
balm and consolation on the wound of the sufferer. 

The love of a father may be as deep and sincere; 
yet it is calmer, and perhaps more calculating, and 
more fully directed in the great periods and crisis of 
life; it cannot descend to those minutiae of affection 
— those watchful cares for the minor comforts, and 
gratification of existence, which a mother, from the 
finer sensibihties of her nature, can more readily and 
duly appreciate. The pages of history abound with 
the records of maternal love, in every age of time and 
every rank of Hfe; but it is a lesson of never ending 
presence, which the heart can feel, and acknowledge, 
and needs not example to teach it how to venerate. 

Can there be a being so vile and odious; so dead 
to nature's impulses, who, in return for such constant 
care, and unvarying kindness, can wilHngly or heed- 
lessly, wound the heart that cherished him, and for- 
sake the lonely one, who nursed him and sheltered 

[28] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

him; who can madly sever the sweetest bonds of 
human union, and bring down the grey hairs of his 
parents with sorrow to the grave; who can leave them 
in their old age, to solitude and poverty, while he 
wantons in the pride of undeserved prosperity? If 
there be, why let them abjure the name of man, and 
herd with the beasts that perish; or let him feel to 
distraction, that worst of human miseries. "How 
much sharper than a serpent's tooth it is to have a 
thankless child!" 

6th Dec. 

THE sailor's SATURDAY NIGHT 

Come, mess-mates, so hardy, whose courage can brave 
The dangers, that threaten in storms on the ocean; 
Whose hearts, like your ships, buoyant over the wave, 
Unappalled have remained in the wildest commotion. 
Now, no tempest is nigh 
That courage to try — 
A bumper, well pledged, will fresh spirits supply; 
'Tis Saturday night! let each mariner toast 
The wife, or the sweetheart, by whom he's loved 
most. 

The wife, we select from the fair of the world, 
Because all in virtue or fondness excelhng; 
Whose eyes, with the tears of regret, were impearled; 
Whose heart, with the tenderest sorrow, was swelling. 

C29] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

As we took our Adieu 

Our voyage to pursue; 
And plighted the vow to be constant and true; 
Then fill up your cans, and together we'll toast 
The pole-star of happiness — her we love most. 

Let those, who ne'er held a fond wife in their arms, 
Yet still to all else, are the chaste joys preferring; 
Fill a glass to the sweetheart, whose kindness and 

charms, 
First gained their affections, and kept them from 

swerving. 

No distance of place 
Shall ever erace 
The image, which memory dehghts to retrace; 
But love and fidelity join in the toast 
To the wife of our choice, or the sweetheart we boast. 

8th Dec. 

My far-off home! my home of love! 
Each passing hour to thee I fly; 
I rarely raise my eyes above 
But prayer is pleading in my eye. 

If smiles the morn — if stars look bright 
In Heaven's clear, splendid dome; 
I sigh, half sad in that pure light, 
And ask if all is well at home. 

[30] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Some thought, some hope, to thee all true, 
Upon my heart is ever waking; 
While thousand fears, what time may do. 
Still keeps its restless pulses aching. 

If seas run smooth, and all aloft 
Looks fair; as o'er the waves we roam; 
I fondly trust an air as soft. 
Is breathing health around my home. 

Does ought provoke a laugh or smile. 
As fancy calls some thought away — 
Oh! even then I pause awhile. 
To ask if all at home be gay. 

But oh! when sad and lone, I lean, 
In musings, o'er the gliding sea; 
I ask, if looks as sad are seen. 
In eyes that weep warm tears for me? 

II fib Dec. 

In the rough blast, heaves the billow; 
In the light air, waves the willow; 
Everything of moving kind 
Varies with the veering wind; 
What have we to do with thee. 
Dull, unjoyous constancy? 

[31] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

i8th Dec. 

At daylight, saw the city of Buenos Ayres; and at 
6 A.M. took in all sail, and came into the outer roads 
— in 4 fathoms water with the chain anchor — find 
it a very disagreeable place for vessels to lay in — 
roKing and pitching very much; too rough to get on 
shore. 

At half-past i p.m. I went on shore in my boat — 
found dull market; and to my surprise, found my 
brother, Francis, and a number of town's men and 
acquaintances; which in some measure, took off my 
unpleasant feelings with regard to the dullness of the 

market; went to see Z , F , & Co. They 

give me poor encouragement — none of my cargo will 
do anything here. Too rough to send my boat back; 
sent her on board ship. Endeavor, and took lodging 

myself at Mrs. T . Lots of company — much as 

I can do to answer questions. Went to walk — met 
a great many ladies shopping. The evening is the 
only time they take for this business. A beautiful 
evening; returned to the house, and found lots of 
company; answered more questions, and at 12 went 
to bed. 

igtb Dec. 

Called upon Z , F & Co. — went to the cus- 
tom house, and delivered my manifest, and entered 
provisionally that I could depart again in 8 days, 

C32] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

without discharging anything; very strict and par- 
ticular at the custom house — the collector being the 

father of the provisional governor La V . After 

getting through my business at the custom house, 
went with my brother and some friends, to the church, 
St. Francisco, for the purpose of seeing the funeral of 
Dorrego, late Governor of this province, who was in- 
humanly shot on Tuesday, without trial, by order of 

La V ; did not see anything at church, except a 

large concourse of people. When Dorrego advanced 
to be shot, he took off his cravat, and told the as- 
sembly (at the same time uncovering his breast, and 
pointing to his wound) "These are the wounds I re- 
ceived, fighting for this country and you; and now I 
am to receive my reward." 

Went again to Z , F & Co. — had no offer 

for my cargo, nor any prospect of any. The weather 
more mild, and the sea smooth — sent off my boat to 
the vessel. Went shopping, and bought a tooth- 
brush of a fine-looking woman, who was much 
troubled with the phthisic — a kind of perpetual 
cough. Went into some elegant stores, and I think 
these people have very superior taste in decorating, 
and draping their stores to advantage. The females 
in this country are very beautiful, very affable in 
conversation, and uncommonly polite. Their dress is 
very handsome — gowns of silk, mushn, etc., coming 
up just high enough to display a beautiful alabaster 
neck, seen through a lace handkerchief. They also 

[33] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

wear a lace veil over their heads. Like the Spanish 
ladies, they have small feet and ankles, and speak the 
Spanish language; the color of their eyes, however, 
differ materially from the ladies of Spain — theirs are 
generally black, but the ladies of Buenos Ayres, 
mostly blue, — some exceptions. 

To speak definitely of the Buenos Ayres ladies — 
they are generally beautiful and indolent; but their 
manners are pleasing, and their dress combines taste 
and neatness. Perhaps I may conceive them hand- 
some from the circumstance of the length of time 
since I saw any damsels. 

Find my time passes very agreeably, but not with- 
out alloy — bad markets — bad prospects. 

20tb Dec. 

Boat came on shore with my trunk and writing desk 

— had to be passed through the custom house with 
them, and have them opened — sent the boat back. 

Made my usual call at the counting house, and as- 
certained that I could not discharge any of my cargo 
without paying whole of port charges, — about 4% 
transit duty on what is taken away. One or two of 
my articles might pay a freight, but nothing com- 
pared with the additional expense incurred. Partly 
made up my mind to go away, but God knows where 

— the times are so bad, but think to try Monte 
Video. Rainy weather — myself and brother caught 

[34] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

in it — got wet to the skin; but finally got home; 
went to bed and had a comfortable night's rest. 

215^ Dec. 

Got up in the morning before breakfast as usual, and 
what is stranger — dressed myself. Nothing doing 
to-day. 

Miss Charlotte, daughter of my landlady, arrived 
from the country; where she had been some days. 
She is about as soft as water-starch, and a buck-horse 
is as handsome; — very consequential, and I should 
think very . . . She is about 27 — poor creature, 
she will never be married — she is past the meridian. 
Oh, how I pity such people; but I pity her poor 
mother more. She appears to be a good-natured old 
lady — very attentive ; her age is about 60, and re- 
sembles Mrs. T , an old lady of my acquaintance 

— that is, in appearance, but rather different man- 
ners. In the afternoon, went to walk — saw more 
ladies — very beautiful. Went to bed early — tired 
and sleepy — wish I was at home. 

22nd Dec. 

Made up my mind to leave Buenos Ayres for Monte 
Video — went to the custom house, and at 5 went off 
with my brother to his ship, and found it so rough, 
it was unsafe to attempt to get any further — spent 
the night with him. 

C35] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

2^rd Dec, 

Begins moderate and cloudy. At 5 left the ship for 

my vessel, and got on board at 6. Mr. F came 

on board at 6 to take passage with me for Monte 
Video. At half-past 6, had a very severe squall, with 
rain — blew a gale so that I could not get under 
weigh — continues through the day to blow strong. 

Mr. F and myself enjoying ourselves as well as 

circumstances will admit. The vessel pitching heavy, 

and Mr. F sick. — heavy thunder and sharp 

lighting. 

24.th Dec. 

Strong gales and rain. At 2 p.m., my brother came 
on board to see me, but at 4, a hght air sprung from 
the northward, and I told him he must leave me; 
hove up the anchor, and made sail, and stood out of 
the roads — at 5, finding the vessel made stern way 
with the current, anchored again in 3 fathoms. Te- 
dious time enough of it, but Mr. F 's company 

makes it more pleasant. He entertained me this eve- 
ning with some of his flirtations. He is not married 
nor engaged — age 28. Prospects for better markets 
darkens. 

By the way, I neglected to mention — we go on shore 
in carts, drawn by 2 horses, and wheels about 4 feet 
in circumference. 

[36] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

2§th Dec. 

Christmas Day — merry one. Rainy weather. Mr. 
F drinking Merry Christmas and trying to mur- 
der the time, conversing on various subjects — very 
interesting to females, if they could hear it. At me- 
ridian, a small schr. passed us with American colors 
flying. Who knows, says I, but that she will have 
letters for me? 

26th Dec. 

Begins with light airs from the eastward, and rainy. 
At 10, Mr. F went on shore, being tired of wait- 
ing for a wind. I went on board ship. Endeavor, soon 
after, and then learned that the Schr., that arrived 
yesterday, was ^6 days from Salem, with no letters. 
That is the hardest thing yet — begin to think my 
friends have forgotten me, and have made up my 
mind in return, to forget them — if possible. Went 
on shore with my brother — got wet — went to hear 
the news, and went on board the ship the same day. 
Discoursed seriously on various subjects, and went 
to bed. 

zyth Dec. 

Cloudy. Went on shore, and dined, and at 6 p.m. 
came on board again. The sea very high, and break- 
ing into the boat occasionally — got wet as a drowned 

C37] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

rat. Had a small dissertation on religion and mo- 
rality, and went to bed — cross enough at the non- 
receptance of letters. 

iStb Dec. 

Pleasant weather and calm. At lo, sent my boat and 
crew on board the Brig; had a serious talk and long 
respecting matrimony. At 3 p.m. left my brother, and 
went on board my vessel in the ship's boat, with 
some unpleasant feelings, I must confess. 

igth Dec. 

Begins with light airs from the southward, and foggy. 
At 2 A.M. got under weigh; made sail, and stood from 
the roads. At 6, took a severe and sudden squall — 
split the main-sail, and jib — doubled-reefed the top 
sail, and took in all sail, and came to in 3^ fathoms 
— unbent the main sail, and jib to repair. 

^otb Dec. 

Begins with hard gales, and tremendous sea, making a 
fair breach over us; continues so through the day. 
My mind very much perplexed with head-winds. 

3i5f Dec. 

Begins with fresh gales, and rough sea with clear 
weather. At 6 p.m. got under weigh; made sail, and 
commenced working down river. 

[38D 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

1st Jan. i82g 

Begins with moderate breezes from the northward, 
and pleasant. At 5 p.m. got under weigh, and made 
sail, and stood down river. 

2nd Jan. 

Same as day before. Monte Video bearing N.E. 15 
miles distant. 

-^rd Jan. 

Same as ist and 2nd. At 1 1 a.m. saw the city of 
Monte Video. At 3 p.m. came to in Monte Video 
harbour with the chain in three fathoms water. See 
a great many American vessels. At 4 went on shore, 

and called on J N , Esq. — he gives me no 

encouragement — bad markets. At sun down, went 
on board to brood over my misfortunes. Hard times. 

4tb Jan. 

Pleasant weather. Ship Herald, Capt. T , arrived 

from Gloucester — 6^ days — went on board immedi- 
ately with the sanguine expectations of getting letters 
from home; but, on being told there was none for 
me, I was almost thunder-struck, and could not be- 
lieve it; but it has proved too true; and as Capt. 
T tells me his voyage was not secret, I am in- 
clined to believe my friends have forgotten me — 

C39] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

shall endeavor with as much alacrity as possible to 
forget them. Had made up my mind to write to my 
friends to-day, but cannot compose my mind enough 
for some time to forgive such an intentional slight; 
nor shall I ever forget it — let them paHiate it as 
much as they please. It is hard — a vessel, coming 
from the same place, and neighbors — that my friends 
— if I have any — could not write me. If they were 
to write me every opportunity, I should think they 
were anxious to hear from me. God grant they may 
all be acquainted with the pangs of absence, that they 
may know to participate, with me, in such undesirable 

trials. Went on shore with Capt. T , — nothing 

doing on shore to-day — came off again, and learnt 
all the news from home — my friends were well. Re- 
ceived a detail of the the news of marriages, births, 
etc. — lots of births, and a change of seasons, and 
affairs. 

The inhabitants of Monte Video are principally 
Spaniards. The ladies are not so handsome, nor so 
numerous as at Buenos Ayres. They, however, have 
small feet and ankles, and dress with great taste. I 
must here endeavor to give some description of their 
character and manners. They make their own dresses 
and are very extravagant in their ideas of show and 
magnificence. As girls and lovers, they are extremely 
fascinating, and jealous in the extreme — prudery and 
affectation are certainly strangers to them; and by 
being in their company an hour, a person might be- 

[40] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

hold their true character. I am told that when they 
see a young man, whom they fancy as a lover, they 
do not hesitate to make any advances, that may be 
requisite, with propriety, and in the days of court- 
ship, are constant almost to a fault; also, they are 
very volatile. I have said they are pleasing before 
marriage — as wives they are indolent — totally un- 
domesticated and prudence is entirely out of the ques- 
tion — they have the same extravagant ideas as be- 
fore marriage, and do not consider the consequences. 
When their children are born, they put them with a 
negro woman to nurse, and, perhaps, they do not see 
the child again for some months; or I may say, before 
they have another, which is not long after. Polygamy 
is practiced here, but I am not certain that it is ad- 
mitted by their laws. Ladies when meeting a stran- 
ger, generally bow very gracefully as they pass. They 
are very fond of Americans. These descriptions apply, 
also, to the ladies of Buenos Ayres. 

§tb Jan. 

Went on shore, and succeded in selling my flour at 
$12 per bbl. — small oflFer for other things, but none 

worthy acceptance. Called on Dr. B , American 

consul, pro.tem., to deposit my register. Dined at an 
ordinary — had an excellent dinner, and pretty fair 
company. Went on board to ponder over the use and 
abuse of friends in general — taking my correspond- 
ents for a text. 

[41] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

6th Jan. 

Holiday — no business done to-day. Fresh gales, 
thunder, and lighting; could not get on shore — very 
tedious on board. Cleared off in the afternoon. 

yth Jan. 

The pilot came on board to carry my vessel to the 
inner roads; got under weigh, made sail, beat in, and 
moved ship. Custom house officer came on board to 
keep me from smugghng — he is a man of 58 years of 
age, and quite a clever old fellow. Sold my httle ship, 
and after breakfast, went on shore. Effected no sale 
to-day. 

Sth Jan. 

Landed my flour. Dined with J N , Esq. 

— no ladies at table — that is however, accounted for 
as Mr. N is not married. Sold nothing to-day. 

gth Jan. 

Nothing worthy of remark occured this day. Sent 
some samples of my cargo to auction, but sold noth- 
ing. My old officer quite agreeable — he tells me he 
has one daughter of 22, and another of 16, unmarried. 
I told him I was unmarried, and should like to see 
them. He appeared to be pleased with the idea. 

C42I 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

1 0th Jan. 

Sold nothing to-day. Saw the man, who was execu- 
tioner during the Revolution. I was told he per- 
formed his duty by cutting the throats of the victims, 
and throwing them into the sea from a precipice. He 
was on a small, rude-looking carriage, with three 
wheels, which he propelled himself. I am told he 
cannot sleep unless he stands erect; visited, no doubt, 
by the judgment of God. 

II fib Jan. 

Spent the day on board — feel uncommonly dull and 
stupid — fine weather. The best company I find to- 
day, is my dinner and wine. Spent the day generally 
in meditation about my future arrangements in busi- 
ness, and trying to forget my former friends at home 
— feel in hopes I shall make out very well, and in a 
short time, accompHsh the desired object. 

1 2th Jan. 

Went ashore rather early in hopes to accompHsh 
something — but, unfortunately, did not make out — 
concluded to advertise my vessel for Rio Janeiro — to 
sail on the i8th. for passengers — hard times — heard 
of, nor saw, anything worthy of note this day. Sold 
nothing. 

[43] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

i^th Jan. 

Had an application to take a man and his family to 
Rio, but he appears unwilling to agree to my terms — 
feel in very good spirits to-day — mind quite tranquil, 
but sometimes absorbed in pleasant anticipations. 

I4.th Jan. 

Don senior M— — C , with his family, and ser- 
vants, concludes to make passage for Rio for 300 
Patacoons. Several more applications, but could not 
agree upon terms. Thoughts to-day principally upon 
my business — not much else. 

i^th Jan. 

Made no sale to-day, and had no offer — shocking 
dull business — tedious in the extreme. Feel in good 
health, and excellent spirits at the idea of leaving 
here. Visited the Oak Hotel with one of the boarders. 
The hostess is an uncommon sluttish-looking woman 
about her dress — rather handsome face, uncommonly 
talkative, and is the size of one of those people, that 
are denominated the seven beauties. 

i6th Jan. 

Engaged another passenger for Rio for 3 gold ounces. 
I have got now, as many as I can possibly take — got 
wet to the skin going on shore. Saw lots of girls on 

[44] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

the mould — some of them pretty — others, not — 
mostly of the brunette complexion — nothing to be 
compared with some of my acquaintances. Think of 
home at intervals "sweet home." 

17th Jan. 

Commenced clearing at the custom house. An auc- 
tion at the Oak Hotel — went there, and thought if I 
did not buy anything, I should see the beautiful hos- 
tess — was not dissappointed; for she was there as 
large as life. Was somewhat disgusted with her for- 
wardness; but with her and a Mrs. Green, held con- 
versation for the space of 2 hours on different sub- 
jects. Mrs. G is a widow, who lost her husband 

at Colonia a few months ago. She came here for the 
purpose of obtaining a passage for England. She is a 
woman of very easy manners. 

i8th Jan. 

Went on shore to hear the news by the arrival of the 
American ship, Star, from Philadelphia. Found the 
Capt. to be an old acquaintance — talked a Httle 
about old times. He tells me Jackson will be Presi- 
dent, which makes me somewhat surprised — how- 
ever, it doesn't trouble me much. Had Senior C 

his lady, child, and suite to dine with me. They in- 
tend to take up their abode until I get to Rio. Mrs. 
C is a fine looking woman — a description of 

[45] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

her perhaps, would not be amiss; she has black eyes, 
black hair, a nose with a small projection, tending to 
add to its beauty; mouth of middling size; the only 
objection I have to her physiognomy is her teeth — 
they are in some measure, a Httle decayed, but not 
sufficient to spoil her other features — her age is about 
19, is of a brunette complexion, and has a child about 
4 months old, and I presume, like all the natives of 
Brazil, she has a negro woman for nurse. I should 
think, if I were to judge from appearances, she was 
extremely fascinating, for she has a most pleasant, 
and expressive countenance, and a " love-Iaughing 
eye" — hope her husband is not of a jealous disposi- 
tion — she has a most alluring eye. One circumstance 
must not pass unnoticed — suffice it to say, she sat 
at table with her child, etc. — a child of 4 months old 
is not very amusing, nor has it, in my opinion, the 
least attraction — except to its father and mother. 

igtb Jan. 

Went on shore to finish clearing out — breakfasted 

with J N , Esq., got my accounts, also my 

papers from Dr. B , after telling him my opinion 

of him in some measure — took my money on board 
— the proceeds of what I sold here. Calm all day so 
that I could not get to sea at any rate, if I was 
ready; but am not quite clear of the custom house. 
Feel savage and cross as an Indian at the idea of 

[46] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

being detained here. My passengers, I think, will be 
pleasant ones — especially the lady. The children, 
however, annoyed me very much last night, squalling 
and crying so, I could not sleep, but I am in hopes 
it will not last long. 

20th Jan. 
Went shore early, — breakfasted with J N , 



Esq. again, in company with Mr. H , the British 

Consul, and a number of other gentlemen. They 
were joking me some considerable about my passen- 
gers, etc. but I was rather cross and vexed at the idea 
of yesterday's detention, so that I answered rather 
short at times. At 9 got clear from the custom house — 

said "Good-bye" to J N the best man in the 

Rio-de-plata, and as good as any in the world — can 
say that I left him with regret. Went on board at 10 — 
got under weigh, and proceeded to sea from Monte 
Video, with 3 gentlemen, i lady, and child, and 8 
servants — passengers for Rio de Janeiro. Very com- 
fortable on board — much more so than I expected. 
Current setting very strong into the river; or rather, 
towards the north shore — I should think at the rate 

of 1 1 miles per hour. Mrs. C , very much alarmed 

this evening with fire in one of the state-rooms, from 
a lamp, which was carelessly left there — it was for- 
tunately discovered in due time to stop its more 
serious progress and consequences. In the morning, 
got under weigh again, and, with extreme pleasure ob- 

[47] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

served the shores of this deceitful and faithless Rio- 
de-la-plata, receding from my view. When I have 
room and leisure, I must give a description of this 

inconstant river. Mrs. C a httle sick, but very 

interesting, nevertheless. 

22nd Jan. 

Wind a-head; but, with a compliment of 26 souls on 
board, it is not agreeable; however, I will not mur- 
mur. Mrs. C , Hke my cat, Susy, is very easy in 

her manners, and uncommonly careless. A further de- 
scription, on further acquaintance, will not be amiss. 
Her arms and hands, and I may say, ankles, are like 
bird's claws. She appears very well in the face, but 
generally, very "thin favored." She adjusts her hair 
with a great degree of taste, and, upon the whole, she 
is very neat in her dress. Should think she would 
measure about 18 inches in circumference — weighs 
about 80 lbs., and is about 4 ft. 7 in, in height. She 
has an uncommonly languishing smile — from ap- 
pearances, I should think they had not been married 
long. 

2^rd Jan. 

Wind unfavorable. Find my passengers, with the 
exception of the servants, very agreeable. They — 
the servants — are very troublesome. Killed a sheep, 
which, in the course of the day, was devoured with 
much alacrity. C , at table, fails not to drink my 

[48] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

good health. She is a pretty creature, as far as ex- 
ternal appearance will go; but takes no particular 
interest with regard to her child, and leaves it alto- 
gether with a negro woman. I dislike her very much 
for that. I here view the difference between the 
sweet souls of America, and other countries, and feel 
every day a greater regard, and affection, for those, 
that I have the pleasure of knowing to be virtuous 
and amiable. Enjoy myself as much as circumstances 
will permit. 

24th Jan. 

Nothing of consequence transpired to-day among the 
passengers — they, however, still continue very agree- 
able. I begin to think that, had I a wife, nothing 
would tempt me to take her to sea; in my opinion, 
a man, continually in sight of a woman, is apt to 
let his affection for her degenerate. And, another 
great evil is — they are very much exposed to the idle 
gaze of all disinterested people on board a ship. 
Woman, lovely woman, certainly was not created to 
be food for scandal — although some of them deserve 
all the scandal that is practiced upon them. Delicacy 
and modesty, unaffected, are, in my humble opinion, 
the most fascinating traits in the character of a lovely 
female. 



[49] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

2^th Jan. 

Dined upon roast turkey. Nothing occurred worthy 
of remark this day. I now and then turn my 
thoughts to my sweet home; view the retrospect of 
past pleasures with increasing delight, and believe 
that no love of the kind surpasses that of a mother — 
her's is not attended with self-interest; nor can any 
reverses of fortune lessen her affection for a child; 
she still loves on with unabated tenderness. Her 
children are the idols of her heart; in prosperity, she 
looks upon them with pleasure; and, in adversity, 
she sympathizes in their misfortunes; no crime — 
however great — no circumstance, can dissipate a 
mother's love for a child. A good wife will make the 
hours, and days, and years of life, pass pleasantly; 
but miserable is that man, who getteth a wife, who 
strives not to please him — he is of course, happier 
abroad than at home. 

26th Jan. 

A day of sameness — during my leisure, think some 
of matrimony. Happy is the man, who can say he 
possesses the first and only love of a virtuous female. 
Appearances may indicate such things; but, to be 
confidently sure, is to know every thought of such a 
valuable heart. Words, as well as actions, must con- 
firm it, or else, in my opinion, it is false. The object 
of a man's heart, according to my ideas, must be the 

[50] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

one that evinces the most affection for him — she, 
who disguises not her feelings; but strives with alac- 
rity, to please the object of her affections — by looks 
of pleasure, and, from her appearance, shows, every 
time she sees him, her dehght. Some would Hke to see 
them at particular times, as if love was an article of 
merchandise; and, indeed it is made so generally. 
"Men die from time to time, but not for love." 

27th Jan. 

Tolerable good breeze, and the vessel seems to be 
shortening the distance which, of course, pleases me 
very much. Killed another sheep to-day, which was 
soon devoured. 

iSth Jan. 

Moderate weather, but pleasant. Meditated some on 
the joys and sorrows of matrimony — personified in 
Dr. C & lady. Conversation, at table, uncom- 
monly edifying and interesting. My lady takes a very 
active part. Time glides quickly by, and why, for 
Heaven's sake, should it not, when we are under no 
restraint in conversaftion? 

^rd Febr. 

At I past 4 saw the land — the western part of the 
interior of the province of Rio Janeiro bearing North 
45 miles distant. 

[51] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

4th Febr. 

At 8, was boarded by a boat from the custom house; 
one from the fort and the police-boat. At 10 I went 
on shore, and, to my great joy, all my passengers, 
also. Found times exceptionally dull; but concluded 
to stay, and wind up my voyage some way or rather. 
At 3 P.M. went on board again — got under weigh, 
and proceeded up above Rat Island and anchored 
above between Rat Island and Cobra's Island — hav- 
ing made a full entry. Got the long boat out, and all 
ready for discharging. No time to think of future 
prospects. 

6th Febr. 
Took out one Hghter load. Dined with M , 



W , & Co. — understood from them, there had 

been letters for me here, but had gone to Buenos 
Ayres. Rather a hard case, but still think it must be 
a mistake. Begin to feel sore about my voyage, but 
console myself with the idea that some others are 
doing worse. 

yth Febr. 

Rainy weather, and could not discharge any cargo 
to-day. Went on shore, but did no business nor sold 

anything. Heard from Francis by Capt. C of 

Brig J , of N. Y., but received no letters. My 

mind quite tranquil — met with nothing to disturb it. 

C52] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Stb Febr. 

Fine day — staid on board all day to write letters to 
my friends, on the strength of what I heard on shore, 
for I had made up my mind not to write until I had 
received some letters from home; or heard of some 
being on the way. 

gth Febr. 

Busy day — discharging as fast as possible — got one 
lighter load on shore; sold some articles, low enough. 

Shocking, perplexing. Dined with M , W , & 

Co. — pleasant company to-day. 

loth Febr. 

Employed discharging cargo — got out one lighter 
load. Sold some articles at a loss — begin to be 
tired of Rio Janeiro. There is no society here. 

lUb Febr. 

Discharged a hghter load of merchandise to-day, 
which will be all I shall discharge this week. Feel 
very agreeable to-day — got my hurry over. 

12th Febr. 

Spent the day on board, it being rainy and having 
some business on board, which needed my attention. 
Dull day. 

[53] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

i^th Febr. 
Drissley rain — no business done to-day. 

i4tb Febr. 

Rainy weather. Was obliged to go on shore, and at- 
tend the auction of my furniture etc. — made some 
pretty good sales — feel quite relieved. Dined on 

shore with my friends, M , W , & Co. Went 

on board early to brood over my business, and think 
what is best to be done. 

i§th Febr. 

Rainy weather — staid on board as usual — it being 
the Sabbath. 

i6th Febr. 

Moderate weather, and rain at intervals. Dined on 
shore, but eflfected no sales, and did httle other busi- 
ness. 

ijth Febr. 

Calm and very warm — thermometer at 90. Dined 
on shore — business dull to-day — produce on the 
rise, and exchange depreciating. 

i8tb Febr. 
Pleasant. Times and business dull as usual. 

[54] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

igth Febr. 
Painting ship, etc. Pleasant weather. Business dull 



made no sales. 



20tb Febr. 



Rainy weather, with thunder and lighting. Sold my 
Blocks. Saw a man about 7 ft. 2 in. tall. Oh what a 
monster! 

21 St Febr. 
Pleasant weather — business about as usual. 

22nd Febr. 

Washington's Birthday. Dressed my vessel with flags, 
etc. 

2 3 re? Febr. 
Discharged the oars, handspikes, etc. — dull day. 

2j^th Febr. 

Mr. M came on board to see the vessel. Holiday 

— no business at the custom house. 

2^th Febr. 

The vessel shines like a fiddle — makes the most 
splendid appearance of any vessel in port. 

C55] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

26tb Febr. 

Pleasant but very warm. Dined on shore. See nor 
hear anything worthy of remark. 

2-jth Febr. 

Pleasant weather. Exchange much as usual — ap- 
pears to have a permanent stand at 24 — disgusted 
more and more with Rio Janeiro. Home, sweet home. 

iStb Febr. 
Pleasant weather — everything about as usual. 

igtb Febr. 

Pleasant weather — 5 months from home — staid on 
board as usual for Sundays. Begin to think about 
turning my face homeward — what a delightful idea. 

2nd March 

Went on shore, but made no sales or effected any- 
thing, that will tend to hasten my departure. Spent 

the evening on board Brig M of New York, with 

Capt. L and his lady. They appear to be quite 

comfortable, but I wonder much how a man can take 
his wife to sea with him — especially to this part of 

the world. Mrs. L appears to be quite a sailor 

— takes the lead, and sits at the head of the table, 

[56] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

and does the honors incumbent on a person in her 
station. Her age is about 37, and she was married 
about 4 months ago. She tells me she likes going to 
sea very much. I admire her candor, but don't think 
much of her taste. 

■^rd March 

Calm and pleasant. Dined at Hotel de-Nord in com- 
pany with some of my friends. Ate a hearty meal. 
Meditate a good deal to-day on the depreciation of 
currency. 

4th March 

A day of sameness. Purchased some sugar, and ad- 
vertised the vessel for sale to-morrow at auction. 

§th March 

Pleasant weather. Attended auction, but did not 
have a satisfactory offer; and, of course, did not sell. 
I am now settled in determination to go directly to 
Gloucester. 

6th March 

Cloudy weather. Spent my time as usual on change, 
etc. 



yth March 
Cloudy weather. Commenced taking in cargo — 466 

C57] 



bags of sugar. 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Sunday Sth March 

Pleasant weather. Spent my day on board in a very 
devout and christian-Iike manner — as is my general 
custom. 

gtb March 

Pleasant weather. Did no business of importance to- 
day. 

loth March 
Very busy settling my business on shore. 

nth March 

Settling my business, etc. preparatory to my depar- 
ture — begin to realize the effects of a bad voyage. 

1 2th March 
Very busy, closing sales. 

i^th March 

Took on board lOO bags sugar — busily employed at 
the custom house, and settling business, etc. 

13^^ March 

Took on board the balance of my cargo — got 
through with all my business — settled accounts, etc. ; 
now, thank God, ready for sea. Rio Janeiro is the 

C58] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

most populous and richest city in Brazil. The slave- 
trade is carried on here to a very great extent. The 
natives are of the color denominated brunette- 
brownish. Husbands here are always jealous of their 
wives, and generally keep them at home — as they 
think — while they are pursuing their ordinary avo- 
cations. The women are, unfortunately, very ugly — 
if I may be allowed such a harsh expression — wear 
no bonnets, and but few clothes — they generally are 
not to be seen till ii or 12 a.m., when they dress etc., 
but, previous to that time, they go about the house 
in "dishabille," with a loose morning dress, and shoes 
"slip-shod." They are seldom seen in the streets, 
and have very extravagant "notions," or ideas — 
totally undomesticated. The Emperor of Brazil re- 
sides here — he is a young man of about 28, and has 
17 wives. An impartial person would say he was 
fond of women. 

The exports from this place are coffee, sugar, hides, 
cotton, etc., but the imports exceed the exports 2 to 
I. The harbor is very large and capacious, and, 
withal, safe. 

i§th March 

Begins with a breezy squall from south-west, attended 
with rain. At 6 a.m. moderate — got under weigh — 
made sail, and proceeded down the harbor, with a 
small breeze from the north-ward, in company with 8 

C59] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Other vessels. At 7 the visit-boat came alongside — 
examined papers, etc. and departed. The remainder 
of the day, wind ahead, and moderate — employed 
beating out. At 12, passed Fort Santa Cruz, and 
with little regret, I bid adieu to Rio Janeiro, although 
I found there some agreeable companions. 

i6th March 
Boarded by a boat from the whale ship, H H 



of New Bedford from the Brazil Bank, for Rio Janeiro 
— out 8 months, and full of oil — Capt. very sick. 

§th April 

Island of Trinidad bearing north, 39 miles distant. 
This island is very craggy, and uneven — producing 
nothing. The land, when within about 20 miles dis- 
tance, has a white appearance. Vessels bound from 
Brazil to the northward, often make this island. 

1 2th April 

Since being within the limits of the S.E. trade-winds, 
have had continued squalls of wind and rain, and 
variable; but feel in hopes the bad squalls are over. 
Ate the last fowl for dinner to-day. Oh, how luscious 
curry is — most time to get home now. Fresh meat 
most all expended — only one pig left — poor crea- 
ture. Feel composed, and mind tolerably tranquil — 
think of sweet home, and my dear friends — think a 

[60] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

little about matrimony. I believe marriage is like a 
sea voyage — he that enters into the ship, must ex- 
pect to meet with storms and tempests. A man is the 
true possessor of a thing, who enjoys it, and not he 
that owns it without the enjoyment of it. Now, 
what is the use for a young man to have an Angelina, 
or own one, (as I may say) when other men enjoy 
their society in the same degree, as much, oftener, 
and perhaps, more than he does; and all because they 
cannot be content with one, but Hke to flirt with all, 
for the sake of variety. Now I say a man is not the 
true possessor of a thing, unless he enjoys it alone. 

^th May 

Horrid perplexing — so near soundings and so moder- 
ate. However, had a very pressing invitation from 

Capt. O to take breakfast with him and his lady, 

and passengers — ladies and gentlemen — 6 in num- 
ber, — but, having a light air, and thinking more 
about home, was obliged to decline his polite invita- 
tion. It would have given me great pleasure to have 
spent an hour or so, with the ladies; especially as 
there were young ones. I really don't know what 
would be a greater treat than female society. Had a 

long conversation with Capt. O , about matters 

and things. I spared him some coff"ee and sugar, 
which was evidently a treat to the sweet souls. I 
wish I had had tea for them; but self being my pre- 

[61 ] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

dominating principle, thought of that first. Oh! how 
I love the looks of a chaste and virtuous female — 
the loveliest and most perfect of the works of the 
Almighty. 

MEMORY 

Oh, what survives misfortune's blight — 
Blooms fresher 'neath a stormy sky — 
Through clouds of darkness shines more bright? 
'Tis memory — faithful memory ! 

When absense chills the glowing heart, 
And fond regret bedews the eye — 
What can a thrilling bhss impart? 
'Tis memory — faithful memory ! 

When Fancy dwells on forms long dear, 
And fond affection prompts the sigh — 
Whose fairy glass shows loved ones near? 
'Tis memory — faithful memory! 



[62] 



Towards Oahu, Sandwich Islands, Bark 
« MiNDORA," S. H. Davis, Master from 
Boston 

§th Apr. 1845. 

This is our first Sabbath since leaving Boston, and I 
feel as gloomy as the weather looks. Have not yet 
gotten over my home-sickness, and still feel discon- 
tented. I don't think I shall be able to read a great 
deal this passage owing to interruptions I constantly 
receive; but may God in Heaven grant me a con- 
tented mind, that I may feel cheerful and happy. 
This is rather a long voyage for me to take, and I 
am very sorry my friends did not say more for me 
to give it up; but I know I must try, with God's 
blessing, to make the best of it, and try to pass the 
time as pleasantly as possible. God speed us on- 
ward. 5 days out. 

April 5th begins with heavy gale from S.W. with 
violent squalls, heavy rain and heavy sea. At 4 p.m. 
ship lurching very deep — every thing amid-ship — 
all the water-casks and a number of other stores 
fetched away to leeward, which caused the ship to lay 
with her lee-sail under water for some 20 minutes. 
Righted at | past 4 — kept her before the wind, until 

C63] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

we got everything secure. Fortunately, soon after the 
ship was knocked over, the wind moderated. Had it 
not, I do not think the ship ever would have righted 
again. There never was such a mess I believe, before. 
Molasses, onions, porter, beans, spars, paint-oil, etc, 
were floating about the decks in all directions — 
water came into the house, as usual, of course — hen- 
coops filled full of water drowning about 15 fowls. 

For my part, after getting all secure and safe, — 
in doing which I took the most active and conspic- 
uous part for want of a proper person — I could not 
help expressing my gratitude to Almighty God for 
such a Providential deliverance — for causing his 
mighty winds, at that time, to be more still — en- 
abling us to work to more advantage; although most 
of the time, I was completely enveloped in water. I 
thank God for our wonderful deliverance from dan- 
ger; and for thus preserving us. Wilt thou, oh, 
Eternal Father of Mercies, still continue to hold over 
us thy protecting hand; and still continue to keep us 
from danger and evil; and Oh God, wilt thou avert 
whatever may tend to our disadvantage; and make 
us thankful and grateful to thee for the health I now 
enjoy to perfection; and wilt thou, O Heavenly 
Father, waft us, in peace and safety, in thine own 
good time, to our desired port without accident. 
Thou, who tempers the wind to the shorn lamb, wilt 
thou guide us safely along; make me, O God, mind- 
ful of thy mercies. 

C64] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

iStb Apr. 

Commenced making Main top-sail and cannot find 
anyone on board, who can sew a seam decently — I 
shall have to get it botched after a fashion. Fine 
breezes, and pleasant weather. Time seems to pass 
swiftly. I must say, I can enjoy myself much better 
at sea by myself, than to have passengers, for I never 
can be by myself; and seldom get a chance to read. 
One pleasant passenger is enough on a long voyage — 
then we can arrange things better. 

igtb Apr. 

Reading this day "Texas and Mexico" by Mrs. 
Houston, an English woman; — miserable trash 
enough — . I must soon make some remarks on my 
passengers — they are not very troublesome; I hope 
I shall be able to find enough for them to eat and 
drink. The young bride seems to have gotten over 
her sea-sickness but not her home-sickness; she is 
rather sorry she listed, I should think, but it is too 
late to repent. She is 21 years old, and seems very 
girhsh. — The Largessa weeds seem very plenty. 

20th Apr. 

It is indeed most beautiful weather. The Queen of 
Night seems to be proud of her influence upon and 
command of, the weather; of which she justly may 

C65] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

be. Another Sabbath, and a long day as usual on 
board ship; everyone seems inventing some plan to 
kill time — myself among the rest. The honeymoon 
seems to be passing without much billing and cooing; 
I think the bridegroom has none of the jealousy, 
which is common to ardent lovers. I hope my dear 
wife and children are now in good health, and enjoy- 
ing themselves all they can. Would to God I were 
with them to partake; but I hope the time will soon 
roll on, when I shall again be restored to them; and 
find them in health and happiness. May God grant 
we may all be spared. Although it is a long time to 
look forward; yet a year is quite a short time to look 
back. In God, however, I put my trust, who has 
carried me so far, and so many times, in safety. 
May He still continue to do so; may He grant me 
my health, which is indeed the greatest blessing; 
which I have much reason to be thankful for; and 
that of my beloved wife and family. 

2^rd Apr. 

When the moon rose last eve, the bride observed it 
was a "funny moon;" I pretended to understand her 
to say "Honey-moon." I told her I knew it was her 
Honey-moon. She took it all in good part — as she 
does everything I say to her. There does not seem 
to be much Honey-moon with them. I frequently 
give them lessons on the comforts of the married life; 

[66] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

and what is necessary to produce it; how they should 
conduct themselves, etc. I am rather surprised that 
a young girl, who has never been from the town 
where she was born; who has scarcely been out of 
sight of her Father's house; who has father, mother, 
brothers and sisters, should have ever been prevailed 
upon to undertake such a voyage as this. She feels 
the change bitterly. I pity her very much, and I very 
often wish she, as well as myself, were in our own 
dear native home. "So I wish," she always says. 
She is indeed very homesick, although she says she 
is as happy on board ship, as she can be away from 
home. Reading "Ellis' Polynesian Researches." 

27th Apr. 

Today I met with quite a dissappointment — in look- 
ing over a package, which was sent from home the 
morning I sailed, I find 3 pairs of duck pants — each 
about half done. I was sorry as I contemplated 
putting on a pair to-day, by way of changing my 
cloth ones — it really is a pity as I Hke duck pants 
at sea in warm weather. Read some in Psalms. I 
ask how is my best of wives and children to-day? 
May God be ever with them and protect them! 

i^th May 

This day crossed the equator — that imaginary cord, 
which is one point out of the 4 gained in our passage. 

C67] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

We have had rather a long passage thus far; but 
trust we will have favoring breezes and decent 
weather as we progress. We crossed the hne in about 
23° 50', which is generally where I hke to cross; my 
mind is much easier than when I go farther west — 
although I believe passages are made quicker when 
crossing about 27° or 28°. Passed a Bark, probably 
bound for Europe — homeward bound — How full of 
magic — those two words ! I have seen many years 
of uninterrupted labor in my profession, without suf- 
fering myself to be turned aside by anything — poh- 
tics or pleasure — . How pleasant it would be for me 
now, at this age, to pause mid'st my toil; with a 
genteel competence; for I find that Life has other 
attractions than the pursuit of money. I think with 
small annoyance, I could rehsh the sweets of Life, as 
any other person within the circle of my acquaintance. 
I have everything to make hfe desirable — except 
plenty of money. Yet I have always had all I want; 
and got all that was desired for those under my care. 
It is, indeed, a gratification to me to get everything 
the dear partner of my soul may wish. She is the 
best of wives and mothers. May God grant that she 
and those dear children, may yet be enjoying health 
and happiness in my dear native town; and that 
nothing may appear to disturb, or in the least mar, 
their happiness for a moment. Everything now at 
home must appear beautiful — the Golden robin, 
which at this time is in our neighborhood, carols 

[68] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

forth his morning song — a sound to me at home, 
nothing of the kind can excel; the flowers begin to 
come forth — gardens are being planted ; and every 
week brings forth something new in the vegetable 
world. How I love to watch the growth of flowers, 
trees, and vegetables, that grow in my garden! 

What a contrast between this season, when all 
Nature looks gay, to gloomy Winter, with all its 
harbingers! Flying-fish have been plenty for several 
days. 

i6th May 

We pass our time playing back-gammon sometimes, 
and in the evening, play whist; but 'tis indeed te- 
dious — this being at sea ; but with the blessing of 
God, I try to make the best of it; and get along as 
easy as possible. I have become an inveterate 
smoker; and consume 6 or 7 cigars a day on an 
average. A cigar is certainly a pleasant companion 
at sea; and when I am smoking, time seems to pass 
very agreeably. 45 days out. 

i8th May 

If I had crossed the line as far west as some do, I 
think we should have come very near the Brazil 
Coast. Flying-fish very abundant; and Mrs. Carey 
seems to have let out some 7 or 8 of her chickens — 
they like a breeze. 

C69] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Here again is another Sabbath, and I have been 
reading "The Sermon on the Mount," which I always 
like to read; for we seem to have there almost all 
the divine laws. 

The weather is getting cooler as we get South, and 
as we go from the sun; the days also are getting 
shorter. 

22nd May 

Killed a pig to-day. Since crossing the line, we have 
gotten along pretty well. I am tired of being land- 
lord. I hke the upper crust — they are generally the 
least trouble — and conduct themselves with more 
propriety. 

2Sth May 

Still numerous flying-fish. Sabbaths seem to come 
round very fast, and as we are getting along very 
well, I am happy to welcome them, and say 

Safely through another week 
Thou hast brought us on our way; 
Let us now thy blessing seek; 
Waiting in thy courts to-day. 

I feel much more contented than when I first came 
out of port; and relying on a kind Providence, for 
protection, I begin to look forward brightly. 

C70] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

27 tb May 

1 see before me daily, instances of the necessity of a 
young man's going about the world, and away from 
the indulgence of his parents. When brought up 
under the immediate care of his parents, and not 
knowing what it is to be denied anything, they are 
not fit to go out into the world to shift for them- 
selves; as they must not expect the indulgence of 
fond parents bestowed by strangers, who have no 
reason to be interested in them. Such an one has an 
idea that every one must incommode themselves, that 
he may be made comfortable. 

^rd June 

The weather really looks hke summer to-day; but, 
like such weather, on the New England coast in win- 
ter, we cannot place much dependence on its con- 
tinuance. Some dolphin around the ship to-day, and 

2 or 3 Cape pigeons. 

The sea is quite smooth. I should Hke to fall in 
with some vessel homeward bound. I have very httle 
opportunity to read or even write; as I am continu- 
ally annoyed, and my cabin is a complete thorough- 
fare. I do make out at night, to find my berth 
unoccupied; but that is the only part of the cabin, 
that is — by the passengers, either for themselves 
or for their things; and they are not at all particular 

[71] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

whom they intrude upon; and one of them, when 
sitting in the passage-way, never would move an inch, 
unless I step upon him, or tell him to move. 

4th June 

The sea quite smooth — with such weather as this on 
the coast of the United States, it would be called a 
"weather-breeder." I do not know what it will turn 
out here, as the moon changes to-day. I wish I 
could be sure we were half passage; for I feel really 
in hopes we are. 64 days out. 

6th June 

The days, from one to another, grow perceptibly 
shorter as we go south; and the nights of course, 
longer. That is the worst of going round Cape Horn 
in Winter; but all admit this month to be the best 
for passing the Cape. 

Sth June 

Cape Pigeons and albatrosses are very numerous. 
Caught a porpoise and lost him again. What time I 
can get free from annoyance, I employ in reading the 
Bible — principally in Psalms to-day. I like the 
Psalms — they are most beautiful poetry — and sub- 
lime indeed. With Proverbs, Book of Job, and Ec- 
clesiastes, I take pleasure in reading in the Old 
Testament. Isaiah will do very well; but most of 
the Old Testament I don't think very edifying. 

[72] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

gth June 

Some drift-stuff round — probably from the La Plata; 
such as small pieces of reed and kelp. Albatrosses, 
in large flocks, sitting round upon the water — I 
never saw so many at one time; some of them are 
very large. 

lotb June 

See no drift-stuff to-day. The weather a little cooler 
just enough to be comfortable. I long to see the day 
when I shall be rid of those troublesome and uncom- 
fortable passengers; for they know nothing of life on 
ship-board, and they expect a great deal — all the 
Cabin and all the deck. 

nth June 

Saw some pieces of kelp. The day ends foggy. I 
would rather dig clams at high-water, than I would 
take such a set of passengers as I now have. They 
have never been about any before; and they do not 
know what they ought to expect aboard ship. I 
must say, as I have always said, give me the upper 
crust for passengers — not the half-way ones; nor 
those who have to borrow the money to pay their 
passage; and have scarcely suitable clothes. 



C73] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

22nd June 

Since passing the River La Plata, have had very 
changeable weather, and winds. When fair, they have 
been hght; and of course our progress has been very 
much retarded. Besides, I have found a constant 
easterly current, which accounts for so much drift 
sea-weed and kelp being seen so far from land. 
Large numbers of the fur and hair seals are round 
and about the ship, by night and by day; and have 
been daily since we passed the La Plata. I am al- 
most tried hearing them cry out. 

24;tb June 

At I spoke Ship Charlotte Millett of and from Boston 
for Valparaiso. What an age since we saw a vessel; 
and I must say it really seemed good; especially one 
that sailed about the same time with ourselves, and 
both bound round the Cape. He outsails me; and 
therefore, we shall not keep company. 

2gth June 

Spoke British Brig Libra, of and from Dundee, for 
Valparaiso — 3 months out — . The Brig's longitude 
was about 1° to the westward of mine; but he said 
his chronometer did not go very well — mine I think 
about right. The Brig was in ballast — the Capt., 
from his questions, seemed to have quite a dread of 

C74] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Cape Horn. The time is fast passing away, and I 
am sorry to say we are making little or no progress 
on our way. 

^th July 

Cape St. John bearing S.W. at noon. Truly this is 
a cold, barren, bleak, and inhospitable coast — the 
land is very high — and the mountains, and indeed 
most of it, is covered with snow. 

loth July 

At 8 A.M. saw Cape Horn rearing N.N.W. Although 
cloudy, so that the sun is obscured most of the time, 
yet pleasant. Thus far, although we have been some 
time about this coast, yet we have not had a very 
bad time; and I a,m sure I did not expect to meet 
such weather in sight of Cape Horn. 

nth July 

At 3.30, spoke English Brig Tryphena — of and from 
Sydney, N.S.W. last 44 days from New Zealand for 
Liverpool — full of passengers. We have made quite 
a great run this day. 

gth Aug. 

We passed the terrible ordeal of passing the Cape 
very well; having had pretty good weather, and I 
am led to believe that June and July — although 
Mid-winter — are the best months for passing the 
Cape. The long nights are very tedious, and the sun 

C75] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

seldom makes her appearance. A mer. Obs. I 
scarcely can say I obtained for a number of weeks; 
the only sure method I found for ascertaining the 
ship's position, with any degree of accuracy, was by 
Alts, of the moon for time; and also the Latitude 
by her. I found in all my observations taken that 
way, the ship's Long, by Chronometer, was as correct 
as the sun. That method was certainly a very valu- 
able discovery; especially when traversing cold, in- 
hospitable regions in winter; where the sun, at mer. 
is only 9° high. On the whole, I had the most bois- 
terous and tedious time, when about the neighborhood 
of the Falkland Islands. Notwithstanding I did not 
have a bad time in passing Cape Horn, I never 
should desire to go near it again. 

i6tb Aug. 

We are getting along very slowly with the work as 
relates to getting the ship in order; having only one 
man, who is capable of doing anything well, and he 
having been laid up the whole passage. 

I'jth Aug. 

How many delightful associations the Sabbath brings 
forth — especially to me — the thoughts of home and 
of my dear wife and children, whom I prize beyond 
everything, are my predominant and seldom ceasing 
feeling. Tropical birds about the ship. 

C76] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

26th Aug. 
Caught a bonitoe; had it fried and of course, eat it. 

2gtb Aug. 

At 8j, saw a very brilliant meteor, which seemed to 
illuminate the whole heavens for the space of nearly 
a minute. 

Latter part of day fresh breezes with squalls and 
hard rain; filled 4 casks with water. 

1st Sept. 
Raining in torrents — filled all the empty water casks. 

^rd Sept. 

This is the anniversary of my birthday — I find my- 
self fast advancing in the path of fife; every year 
seems to me shorter than the last. Nothing tends so 
much to promote the remembrance of home and 
friends, as the anniversary of our natal day; it calls 
to mind the blessed season of youth, when all is fife, 
and hope, and joy. Parents, and brothers, and sis- 
ters, are held in pleasant remembrance; wife and 
children now claim my chiefest and happiest thoughts 
— of them, how I love to think! Remembrance of 
them, awakens all my sohcitude and happiness. They 
are indeed a cherished green spot in my pleasant 
memories. 

C77] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

4th Sept. 

4 of my white-washed, fresh-water sailors off duty, 
— sick; which reduces the number one half; and 
one half of such a miserable set, makes a poor part of 
a crew. I have indeed a real Fieldings gang — an 

old, old man, and a little boy, a d fool, and a 

Frenchman. 

§tb Sept. 

A group of small islands — about 9 in number, and 
but httle known, and, as I deem it most prudent to 
keep to the eastward — both because they are but 
little known, and on account of baffling winds and 
calms, which are hkely to be feared in their vicinity. 
The number of the group upon the chart is very in- 
definite. I have no wish, however, to make any new 
discoveries, shall endeavor, therefore, to give them a 
wide berth. 157 days out. 

14th Sept. 

At 6 caught a porpoise — divested him of his blubber 
to make oil, and had his fiver fried for breakfast; 
which, by the by, tasted very much fike pig's fiver. 

iSth Sept. 

At noon the east part of Morotoi Island bore W. 
by S. 

[78] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

igth Sept. 

At I, the east end of Morotoi bore south 5 or 6 miles 
distant. At sunset, saw Oahu. At daylight, the S.E. 
part of Oahu in sight — made sail and stood down 
for it. At 9, passed Diamond Point, and hauled in 
for the town of Honolulu. At 10, took on board 
Capt. D. P. Penhallow — pilot — , who moored me 
safe inside the reef, and into the harbor close to the 
wharf; furled the sails, & cleared the decks, etc. — 
passengers went on shore, p.m. had considerable com- 
pany from shore. 

20tb Sept. 

Went on shore, and presented my manifest at the 
Custom house, and left my ship's papers with Mr. 
Abel, the newly appointed American Consul; and I 
believe my ship's papers are the first that he has 
taken. 

Busy on board clearing up, and getting ready for 
discharging. Nothing of particular moment occured 
to-day. Sent 2 men to U.S. hospital at $3! per week. 

22nd Sept. 

Commenced discharging cargo; employed Kanaces to 
work at 50 cts. per day — they finding themselves. 
Had 2 or 3 gentlemen to dine. People here seem in 
rather an unsettled state, on account of 2 parties — 

C79] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

the Government and Anti. — Spent the evening at 
Capt. Penhallow's, who has a straw house, and has a 
wife and 2 children. We hauled into the wharf in the 
morning, early. 

23rd Sept. 

Discharging cargo — very convenient; and the mer- 
chants send for their goods as soon as they are landed 
— pilotage in and out of this port $1 per ft. each way. 
There is a hotel kept here for board merely, without 
lodging — price $6 per week; they keep a pretty good 
table. It is kept by a Mr. Thompson of Charlestown, 
and Capt. Carter of Boston. They have about 30 or 
40 constantly, and are doing pretty well. 

24th Sept. 

Discharging cargo. The King and his Cabinet visit 
the British Admiral, Sir Francis Seymour, by invita- 
tion. He was saluted on going on board and leaving 
the ship — from the CoIIingwood — Admiral's ship — 
also by the U.S. Frigate, Savannah — Commodore 
Sloat — ; also lying here in the outer roads. 

Sold no goods yet; nothing else of any particular 
moment occured to-day. 

2$tb Sept. 

Discharging — find the cargo not very well stored; 
and the steam of the lumber has moulded the things 
a great deal. 

[80] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

The Am. Consul invited me to make one of his 
family party to be presented to his Majesty, Kame- 
hameha 3rd; and as this is a particular appointment, 
I feel somewhat flattered. 

At 8 P.M. I dressed myself in my court dress — my 
best of course; and rode up to the Ex-consul's house, 
where the present consul lives; there we were intro- 
duced to the ladies of the party. We left the house 

soon after 8 o'clock; Mrs. A and Mrs. S in 

a small hand-waggon drawn by a native. The car- 
riage was a pleasure waggon in miniature. Mr. A , 

Mr. S , and myself walked by the waggon. On 

arriving at the gate of the palace, the Guards "pre- 
sented Arms" as we passed; and up the steps of the 
palace the same. We were met at the entrance by 
Mr. Wylie — minister for Foreign Aff"airs — was for- 
mally introduced to him. We were then ushered into 
the audience-room; where were the King and his 
Chiefs; the heads of Departments; and also the 
Queen. The King and his Chiefs were dressed in full 
uniform; and they are fme-Iooking men. I intimated 
to Dr. Judd, minister of the Interior, my intention to 
make his Majesty a present of a sword. He seemed 
pleased, and recorded my name in a book, by request 
of the Ministers, and I went all over the palace; saw 
the State bed-chamber — the bed-stead was made by 
an American. There seemed to be no attempt at 
great magnificence or display throughout the palace. 
The building was recently erected, and planned by 

[81] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

the present Governor; and does much credit to his 
taste and ingenuity. The King formerly resided at 
Mowee; but this place, being of so much more im- 
portance, and visited so much more by Man-of-War 
and whale-ships, on account of the harbour, he about 
5 months ago, removed here, and took the house. 
The Governor is very dignified, and calls upon me 
every day. Stout men, here, are held in great esteem 
and veneration; and I, for the first time in my life, 
feel a sort of pride in my corpulency. 

26th Sept. 

Discharging cargo. Went to see the fort where the 
Governor Hves and where all the courts are generally 
held. It is a miserable concern, taken under the head 
of fortification; there are about 60 or 70 guns 
mounted — all wornout things ; and the carriages rot- 
ten and dropping to pieces. They are of all shapes 
and sizes. The fort is of a circular form; here also 
is the prison. Took tea and spent the evening at the 
Mansion House — a very good house, and they have 
a good table. Sent a sword to the King, with a note 
to the Minister of the Interior. 

ijtb Sept. 

The Polynesian Government paper came out with a 
notice of my presentation to His Majesty. Received 
an answer to my communication of yesterday. Took 

[82] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

on board about 6 tons of ballast, and continued to 
discharge cargo. Spent the evening with Mr. Stephen 
Reynolds — the English Consul was there — and I 
was entertained with a real tirade of abuse of the 
government, and all the heads of departments; and 
such a setting out as they gave them, I never heard. 

2Sth Sept. 

Went on shore to the seamen's Bethel church, and 

heard Mr. S ; rather a singular discourse on the 

free agency of Man. Dined at the house of Mr. 
J. J. Jarvis. 

2gth Sept. 

Discharging cargo — sold Mr. Reynolds 3 cases of 
goods for $1300. payable on or before Oct. 13th in 
good whalemen's dft. Spent the evening at the house 

of Mr. Grimes. Mrs. G is a daughter of P. E. 

Webster of Salem. 

2nd Oct. 

Finished discharging cargo. Spent the evening at 
Mr. C. Brewer's and took tea. Their family consists 
of himself and wife — a daughter of Rev. Mr. Turner; 
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Brewer, Jr.; an old lady by 
name of Mrs. Moore, and Mr. and Mrs. Marshall. 
They have a fine house for this place, and live in 
good style. Lieut. Watson, bearer of dispatches to the 

C83] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Commodore, arrived from the U.S., having left Nor- 
folk 6th July. He says the U.S. is in a very pros- 
perous state, and money plenty. He brings news of 
the death of General Jackson, and of the appointment 
of Louis Mc.Lane, as special minister to England to 
settle the Oregon question. Texas, he thinks, will 
become independent as Mexico seems willing; rather 
than be annexed to the U.S. 

^rd Oct. 

Spent the evening at Mr. Hall's — the secular agent 
for the Am. Mission. 

4tb Oct. 

Hauled ship into the stream. Attended the auction 
sale of some of my goods, which sold very low — 
postponed the sale till Monday as they had not time 
to finish. Came on board early being tired and beat 
out. 

Sth Oct. 

Went to the Native Church, and heard Mr. Arm- 
strong hold forth in the native language. The King, 
Chiefs, and Governor, attend this church — a large 
church with 2 tiers of windows, but no galleries except 
that for the choir, which consists of natives; and of 
course they sing in their own language. In the after- 
noon, went on horse-back to the Pari — a precipice 

[84] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

about 6 miles from town. The latter part of the ride 
up is very dangerous, being very circuitous and rough in 
some places — just room enough for the horse to pass, 
and the ridges, which make the road hilly, are very 
steep. I was somewhat frightened. I am most jolted 
to death, and feel sore enough, and I suppose I 
shan't get over the ride for some time. 

6tb Oct. 

Painted the outside of the ship on larboard side. 2nd 
mate ran away, and left his clothes and 4 months 
pay. Dined at the fort with the Governor. Had 
quite a good dinner and served up in very good style. 

7th Oct, 
Painted starboard side of ship. Dined on shore. 

Sth Oct. 

Dined with Mr Grimes and family. Took tea at the 
Mansion House. 

gtb Oct. 

Busy settling freight bills, etc. on shore. Had an 
auction this evening, and closed sales of all my knick- 
knacks at a great loss from Invoice — it was however 
a consignment. 



C85] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

iith Oct. 

Heavy rain and sharp lighting. Had 5 gentlemen to 
dine, and we had quite a fine dinner, and a good 
time. At 5 p.m. all went on shore, and passed the 
remainder of the day in-doors; it being too wet and 
disagreeable without. 

i^tb Oct. 

Breakfasted and dined on board Chenamus of New- 
buryport. Very busy settling my business — collect- 
ing bills, etc. 

iSth Oct. 

I shall be ready to put to sea in the morning. En- 
gaged to take Mr. F. B. Maur to Manila for %'/§. — 
he is a Frenchman. 

16th Oct. 

At II , went on board with my specie, and the pilot. 
Made sail, cast off, and proceeded out of the harbour. 

24.th Oct. 

I never saw flying-fish so large and numerous as they 
have been since we left Oahu — number of tropic and 
other birds around. 

[86] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

28th Oct. 

Busy writing letters as usual, and endeavoring to 
amuse myself as well as I can; but it seems very 
tedious; although I have a young man for passenger, 
and he is very pleasant and good. 

i^th Nov. 

Saw Richmond Islands. They appear, at this bearing 
— 6 miles — like 3 islands; but there are rocks be- 
tween the two largest; they are all rock, and all that 
is seen about them that looks like vegetation, is a 
little verdure on the largest and western one. They 
are very remarkable, and the south-west part of the 
western one, has a hole right through the land, and 
very much resembles the Natural Bridge of Virginia. 
There is also a very small cove north of the hole, with 
a kind of small stone beach. About | way on the west 
part of the island, is what appears to be the mouth 
of a very large cave, and must be a great curiosity. 
Bound for Manila, it is best to pass to the southward. 
There is a good channel on both sides of them. 

iStb Nov. 

At 2 P.M. was boarded by a gun-boat, which brought 
a list of vessels for me to insert mine — it tells where 
from, where bound, cargo, etc. At 6 anchored in 
Manila Roads. 

C87] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

20th Nov. 

At 8 A.M. was visited by the Capt. of the Port, and 
the custom house concern. They require a bill of 
health; and if there is none, the Capt. must write a 
certificate of the health of the place he last left. 
They also want a crew's list, or rather a copy of the 
Roll, and a list of passengers. 

list Nov. 

Agreed with a woman to supply ship with fresh meat, 
which it seems customary to have once in two days. 
Beef is 5 cts. a lb. Deposited my register with the 
consul, Mr. Sturgis, and passed the day reading papers, 
etc. 

22nd Nov. 

Wrote home by a vessel bound to Singapore to meet 
the Overland Mail. The Feast of Santa Cruz com- 
mences to-day; and this evening a great illumination, 
and display of fireworks. For myself, I shall not go 
to see it before tomorrow. 

2^rd Nov. 

Had a call from Capt. Somes of Gloucester, who has 
been in this country 36 years. I was glad to see 
him, and he on his part, seemed highly so, and I 
must say it seemed really good to sit down and talk 

[88] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

with a person about my native town. He stayed with 
me 4I hours, and our tongues were going pretty well. 

I shall go to his house soon. Dined with Mr. E , 

of the house of Peele, Hubbell, & Co. There was 
quite a pleasant party. In the evening, went to the 
feast of Santa Cruz, and saw quite a display of il- 
luminations and fire-works. Saw many pretty women. 

24.tb Nov. 

British ship. Mermaid, in coming into the Bay this 
morning got aground on Cavill's Island. She is from 
China. I cannot make up my mind what to do — 
whether to load here or go to China. Sold my clocks 
— 4^ dollars — for brass, and $i| for wooden ones. 
Clocks are a dull article. 

iSth Nov. 

Went to see the women embroider the Pina in the 
evening, and spent remainder of evening at Peele, 
Hubbell, «& Co., where we had a concert of native 
musicians. 

i2tb Dec. 

Ship Farwell went to sea this evening — wrote to my 
owners by her. Had quite a curious party at our 
house this evening — jugglers, dancing girls, etc. 



[89] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

i^th Dec. 

Brought the ship nearer in shore to load for home. 
Wrote to Oliphant & Co., Canton, and remitted them 
$500. to purchase me some things at Canton. 

14th Dec. 
Went to see the place where the natives fight game- 
cocks, and it is really barbarous. 

i§th Dec. 

Discharged 2 cascos of ballast from the ship, and 
got ready to receive some cargo. Took on board one 
casco of sapanwood. 

ijth Dec. 
Took into the ship 4 cascos sugar. 

iSth Dec. 

Took out all the ballast and sent off another casco 
sugar and sapanwood. 

22nd Dec. 

Took on board remainder of 125 tons sugar and 70 
bales hemp. 



C90] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

2$th Dec. 

Christmas holidays commence — nothing doing at the 
custom house for a number of days, which will hinder 
me considerable. 

igth Dec. 

Stupidly dull — every day the same. I am tired and 
sick of the place — every day the same. 

^ist Dec. 

Last day of the year. Played whist in the evening. 
Received 3 invitations to dine tomorrow. Shall take 
up with the first — Mr. Butler's. 

1st Jan. 1846 

New Year. I wish my friends all a happy one. 
Dined with Mr. Butler — had a good dinner and good 
company. 

2nd Jan. 

Employed on board taking in hemp etc. self on 
shore settling business. 

Sth Jan. 
Finished loading and got all ready for sea. 

C9O 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

6tb Jan. 

Settled all my business on shore; and at 5 p.m. went 
on board, but not liking the time to go to sea, came 
immediately back again — to pass the night with 
friends. 

7tb Jan. 

At 7 went on board in company with Capt. Keating; 
and immediately got under weigh; but there was so 
little wind, the ship would scarcely steer — made out 
to get outside the shipping in the Roads. 

17th Jan. 

Spoke the clipper ship, Montauk, of New York, — 
Capt. Michael — 10 days from Canton for New York. 
The Capt. informed me that there were no freights to 
be had there for the U.S., which makes me bless my 
stars that I concluded to load at Manila. She beat 
me sailing, of course. Saw Camel's Island, Saddle 
Island, then St. Julian Island. 

list Jan. 

Passed several floating trees, which appeared very tall, 
and I took them to be vessels for some time after they 
appeared in sight. 



C92] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

2^rd Jan. 

Spoke Portuguese Brig, Emma, of Lisbon from Macoa 
for Bombay — i6 days. 

6tb Febr. 

I am reading "Amy Herbert" — a very pretty story 
for children, and which I recommend for the perusal 
of my children. It contains very good precepts and 
principles — although they are a good deal orthodox 
— for instance that of infant baptism. It is, no 
doubt, a very proper ordinance, but I cannot beheve 
in it to the extent which is set forth in the book. 
The book on the whole, is adapted well to the minds 
of the young, for whom it was intended. 30 days out. 

8th Febr. 

Sunday. I am to-day reading my Bible as usual. 
Have begun again at Genesis, which is a very in- 
teresting history; but Exodus and Leviticus are not 
very interesting or edifying. I just scan them over a 
little. Time seems tedious, but fond anticipations of 
home is a great consolation. 

gtb Febr. 

This is the most tedious day I have had for the pas- 
sage, as we have made no progress on our way, I am 
now rumaging over old newspapers — a file of which 

C93] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

I have on board from Dec. to March, 1844 & 55 ^^^ 
as I had no time to hear or read about what was 
going on during my absence at that time — find some 
news, and them very interesting. I wish I had the 
Gloucester "Telegraph" for the whole of last year. 
Have made, this day, just 13 miles on our way. 

14th Febr. 

This is the greatest day's work we have made this 
passage and I think we are getting along finely. 

i^th Febr. 

Sunday. This is even a better day's work than yes- 
terday. As usual, on the Sabbath, I am reading the 
Bible. The first book of Samuel is tolerably interest- 
ing, as it commences the history of Saul and David; 
the friendship between David and Jonathan, etc. 

i6th Febr. 

A ship in sight to the Northward, standing the same 
way with us. Exchanged colors with the Bark, which 
proves to be English, and we are near enough to 
make her to sail from Liverpool, but cannot yet make 
out her name. We sail as near ahke as can be. This 
is the best day's work yet. 

C 94 ] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

lyth Febr. 

Made the bark out to be the Socrates of Liverpool — 
exchanged signals with him. 

22nd Febr. 

Sunday. This, then, is the i6th anniversary of my 
marriage — my wedding-day — an event to every one; 
which changes his whole character — an era the great- 
est in his Hfe. What a great change it makes in the 
whole business of a man's life! At once, from the 
careless young man, he assumes the responsibility of 
the head of a family. Before, he knew nothing of the 
care of any but himself; but now his better-half — 
the promised sharer of his joys and sorrows must be 
cared for; he becomes another man; his reflecting 
powers are exercised, and he feels all the importance 
of the husband. In his expenditures, now, he must 
not be so prodigal, for in process of time, additions 
to his family will at times occur, which will of course 
increase his domestic expenses. "'Tis sweet to toil 
for those we love," and the task is never great or 
hard for a man to toil for the benefit of his family. 
If the change is so great and sudden to man, what 
must it be to fond, confiding woman! She enters 
at once upon the duties of a wife. How arduous a 
task! How great the obligation! She leaves the 
home of her childhood, where, in innocence and vir- 

C95] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

tue, she has been free from care, and happy in the 
society of her beloved parents, brothers, and sisters. 
She leaves all that, and throws herself under the pro- 
tection of her husband — a man, who has sworn to 
cherish, love, and protect her. She has promised to 
love, honor, and obey him — these words are respon- 
sively breathed to the God of Heaven. His Mercy 
and Blessing they invoke for the performance of their 
vows. She then puts herself under the protection of 
a man, in whom she confides. She gives up all she 
holds dear in life to him. He is to her all in all — her 
Alpha and Omega. She looks up to him for happiness 
and support. She has left a father's house — a home, 
where she was free from care, and now she expects to 
be provided for. To him she looks for sympathy and 
love, which to her are her Heaven upon earth. She 
is satisfied with her lot, and paints in dreams the 
fairy-land of a happy future. She thinks not of 
clouds, that may occasionally intervene to perhaps 
interrupt their happiness for a moment; although she 
knows, and can see from her own observation, that 
even on the sunny shores of life, some dark clouds 
will occasionally overshadow — for how impossible it 
is that perpetual brightness should reign in any 
quarter — 

"O'er her young heart a spell is cast. 
His power upon her soul has past." 

C96] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Woman's heart truly is the seat of all that is lovely, 
affectionate, and kind; she endures pain and suffering 
with fortitude and patience. How different is man, 
although more calculated by Nature to bear pain! 
True, he can bear fatigue and hardship better, but 
where is that amiable, uncomplaining temperament? 

The soul of my Kfe, and star of my happiness — 
together we have jogged on with as few intervening 
clouds as falls to the lot of mortals; if some dark 
shade has occasionally appeared in the firmament of 
our happiness, a slight air, or breath, has dissipated 
it, ere it was scarcely visible. Talk of youthful love 
and happiness in the early part of marriage — I find 
my love and affection increases as I grow older. I 
become more attached to the object of my early at- 
tachment. I feel more and more that she is indis- 
pensable to my happiness. We have been blessed by 
Almighty God with 4 lovely children — they, too, add 
a strengthening tie to our wedded fehcity. She is 
everything as a wife, and she fulfils the duty of 
Mother with unutterable thought and devotion. How 
holy and sincere is the love of a Mother for her chil- 
dren — there is no love like it. 

All the memories and aspirations of my wife and 
children, cause me to bless God for his Mercy, so 
abundantly extended to me. How deeply is every 
man's Kfe involved in the events which his marriage 
produces — perhaps more so than by any combination 
of circumstances, which he can possibly experience; 

[97] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

therefore, it seems to me that there is no anniversary, 
fraught with so much interest, and such tender recol- 
lections, as that of our wedding-day. We do not feel 
so much, that every year makes us so much older, as 
when we arrive at each anniversary of our birth. 
Perfect happiness, it is said, is not the lot of mortals; 
but I, in my married life, have seen as much happi- 
ness as falls to the lot of any one. 

I am a firm believer in youthful love; or love in 
the ear y part of marriage; and I also believe in the 
increase of love and affection — from experience — 
the longer we live together. 

I must here quote from "The Neighbor" an ex- 
tract, which accords pretty near to my opinion — 
"If you wish to learn the true value of marriage; if 
you wish to see what this union may be for two hu- 
man hearts, and for life; then observe not the wedded 
ones in their honey-moon; nor by the cradle of their 
first child; nor at a time when novelty and hope yet 
throw a morning glory over the young and new-born 
world of home; but survey them rather in the more 
remote years of manhood, when they have proved 
the world and each other; when they have con- 
quered many an error, and many a temptation, in 
order to become only the more united to each other; 
when labor and cares are theirs; when, under the 
burden of the day, as well as in hours of repose, they 
support one another, and find that they are sufficient 
for each other. Or survey them still further in Hfe; 

C98] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

see them arrived at that period, when the world, with 
all its changes and agitations, rolls far away from them ; 
when every object around them, becomes ever dimmer 
to them; when their house is still; when they are 
soHtary; but yet stand hand in hand, and each reads 
in the other's eyes only love; when they, with the 
same memories and the same hopes, stand on the 
boundaries of another hfe, into which they are pre- 
pared to enter; of all the desires of their being — 
retaining only the one — that they may die on the 
same day. — Yet then behold them! 

**0h, give to me the lowhest forest flower 
Which mine own hand, fresh from its virgin stem, 
Hath plucked, before the brightest fairest gem 
That ever graced the garden or the bower, 
If it hath bloomed upon another's breast! 
So with the heart of Woman ! — I could see 
No charm in e'en an angel's witchery 
If by another she had been caressed. 
Oh give to me some simple village maid. 
The pure endearments of whose artless love 
I first may waken, and alone may prove; 
Who ne'er hath been, or hath herself betrayed 
Give me with her, remote from cities rude. 
To Kve and die in sylvan solitude." 

How pleasant are the thoughts of my dear home; 
everything, which memory cherishes, brings with it its 

[99] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

pleasing reminiscences. I do not think more of my 
wife and family on such anniversaries than I do every 
day; but I am more apt to commit my thoughts to 
paper. May God, the Father Almighty, be with, and 
bless with health and comfort my dear wife and chil- 
dren. May He ever hold them in his protecting care. 
I know, Oh Eternal God, how many obhgations we 
are under to Thee; for which wilt Thou make us 
thankful. Although every anniversary of our mar- 
riage, makes us another year older; yet we do not 
feel so sensibly the advance, as we do on our birth- 
day, when every association brought with it, reminds 
us of the flight of time, and of course tells us that we 
have proceeded another year on our journey of life. 
The period of youth is considered by most every 
one as happy and joyous. I look back on the retro- 
spect with pleasure; happy indeed, most happy is the 
memory of those years; but still I look upon my 
wedding-day as the birthday of my real and substan- 
tial happiness — the anniversary of that day com- 
memorates all that is pleasant and satisfactory. All 
other friends may forsake us; but to the wife we 
look as our sure, and ever abiding consolation — "A 
friend that sticketh closer than a brother." She alone 
is the one on whom we can depend with confidence 
and sincerity, in the hour of adversity. She is in- 
terested, because our welfare is hers; our prosperity 
hers. She can sympathize, because half the benefits 
of prosperity, and half the troubles of adversity are 

[lOO] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

hers. In fine then, the married life is the only per- 
manently happy one in this hfe; especially to a per- 
son of my temperament, who values Hfe only in pro- 
portion to the enjoyment and pleasure, which it gives. 
We should then endeavor to embrace what gives us 
the most solid and rational pleasure. Oh, Eternal 
Father in Heaven, wilt Thou ever be with the partner 
of my bosom; wilt Thou keep her in health, and 
grant her pure and undefiled religion; and grace and 
health to sustain her, to bring up the objects of her 
charge, to thine approbation! Oh, Sovereign Dis- 
poser of the Universe, wilt Thou be with our dear 
children — the objects of our love — ; wilt Thou in- 
still into their young heart their duty to parents; 
and their whole duty, according to Thy dictates; 
wilt Thou cause them to seek the path of Virtue, and 
avoid that of vice; and to be good children, such as 
are accepted of the Lord. 

yth March 

Saw pieces of coral. Put a hook on, but got no fish. 
I believe deep-water fish are not exceedingly plenty 
here, as I have never caught any. Saw some Gannets, 
or Loland Geese; but have not yet seen a Cape 
Pigeon. 

Sth March 

Had a fine roast turkey for dinner, and it was really 
cooked to a charm — quite like home. I have a very 
strong "penchant" for turkey — no better eating. 

[lOl] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

II fib March 

Killed the old sow, which I brought from Boston, and 
I should think she weighed over 200 lbs. Salted the 
fresh pork — all but the head, feet and spare ribs. 
I believe I am now fairly around the Cape; and thus 
far have had a fair passage. 63 days out. 

22nd March 

Sunday. Reading the Book of Job to-day, which I 
must say is very interesting — although an Allegory. 
Roast turkey for dinner. Again see flying-fish — not 
a bird in sight. 

2^rd March 

Took 6 or 7 squids from the channels — probably 
driven from their element by the flying-fish. 

28th March 

All hands employed scrubbing ship, and getting ready 
for painting. 

3i5f March 

Painting inside, and the Mindoro begins to display 
her charms. 



[102] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

2nd Apr. 

We have gotten pretty well along with getting the 
ship to rights; all but painting the outside, and I 
think the chance for doing much of that is very 
doubtful. I hope, however, to paint her bulwarks — 
the ship is very deep in the water; the white streak 
is not much more than a foot above it; but she 
really, in symmetry and grace, now seems like Haidee 
in Byron's Don Juan. Nearly everything is in order 
about the ship, and we are making very fair progress 
on our way. After all, there is a satisfaction being 
at sea — although at times, in these long tedious 
voyages — a very melancholy one. 

gtb Apr. 

Thank Heaven, we are across the Equinoctial hne, 
and it begins to seem as if we were in our own home 
waters again. 92 days out. 

II fib Apr. 

Quite busy painting outside, and I think have done 
all that we shall be able to do — but she looks all 
the better for that. 

i6th Apr. 

Had the last turkey for dinner. Roast turkey is in- 
deed very fine but I think I could tire of it — as I do 

C103] 



' JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

of fresh meat generally; and of every thing and every 
body on board; these long voyages are enough to 
wear a man out; and every year, I think, makes him 
3 years older, or adds as many to the catalogue of 
existence. 

2§th Apr. 

Near noon, an eclipse of the sun commenced. All 
hands employed scraping, painting, and varnishing the 
ship. 

2ytb Apr. 

Spoke Brig Allen, of Scituate, lo days from Boston — 
for Porto Rico. The Capt. told me if I would send 
my boat, he would give me some newspapers. I 
hoped he would send them, as I had gotten my 
boat in fine order, and did not wish to move her; 
he told me he had painted his the day before, or 
he would get her out; if I would lay by a little, 
he continued, he would run close to me, and throw 
some papers on board; he accordingly, came close 
to me and threw a bundle of papers, which struck 
the bulwarks, and went overboard. One of my 
men immediately jumped overboard, and recovered 
them. It is needless to say they were read with 
great eagerness; although they did not seem to con- 
tain much news. The Capt., however, took great 
pains for me to have them, for which, I manifested 
to him my thanks — he is a noble fellow. 

[104] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

2Stb Apr. 

Busy myself reading the news — only 1 1 days ago 
dated. Quite a number of disasters — Congress de- 
bating about Oregon; boundery of Texas not settled; 
army on the Frontier; large Naval force in the Gulf 
of Mexico, etc. 

nth May 

We saw the land — Cape cod light-house. 124 days 
out. 



C105] 



Description of Honolulo — the princi- 
pal TOWN OF Oahu, Sandwich Islands, 
1845. 

Honolulo is situated on the south side of the island 
— about 5 miles to the westward of Diamond Point. 
The harbor is formed by a reef on each side of the 
entrance — which channel is about 500 ft. wide. The 
reefs on both sides are frequently entirely dry at low 
water; and the sea always breaks over them. It is 
best to be off the mouth of the harbor early in the 
morning, as then it is generally calm; and ships can 
be then towed in — that, and tracking in by the 
natives, are the only ways of getting into port ; as the 
trade-winds blow right out of the mouth of the har- 
bor. By hoisting the tack forehead, a pilot will al- 
ways be at hand, who has $1 pr. foot. The harbor is 
capable of holding about 50 sail of ships. This is the 
most important seaport in the North Pacific. In the 
harbor are 4 wharves — Robinson's, Ladd's, Rey- 
nold's, and Skinner's; the former is the largest, situ- 
ated on the eastern part of the harbor, and used 
entirely as a place for heaving out ships, and a ship- 
yard generally. The others, for landing goods, where 

[106] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

ships can lie afloat all the time, loaded — indeed, the 
conveniences for landing goods, are as good as I ever 
saw. The outer road is not considered very safe; as 
they have to anchor in about 20 fathoms, and the 
bank of soundings very steep. 

There are some very good store houses here, built 
of coral, with slate, or shingled roofs. Brewer & Co. 
have the best, and Grimes the next. Grimes, and 
also his wholesale store, is adjoining Ladd's wharf, 
and I think is the best stand for business in 
town. 

The American consul, Mr. A , has his office a 

few rods up the street from the wharf. He has just 

succeeded Mr. H ; and my ship was the first 

merchant, that deposited his papers with him. He 
seems to mean to do what is right, and sticks close 
to the law, which he has at his elbow always in his 
office. He is about 28 years old, and is a native of 
Kentucky. The only thing he has done to merit his 
office in a pohtical point of view, is having been a 
clerk in one of the departments at Washington — 
how much and how loud he has hurrahed for Polk, 
I have never heard. In the main, however, he seems 
very well. 

This place was governed by what is called a British 
Commission, for about a year — during all that time, 

Lord G P , of the British Frigate, Caryford, 

hved on shore, to take out the commission — during 
that time, the English flag was hoisted at the fort. 

C 107] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Admiral T arrived in the Dublin Frigate, and on 

the 31st of July, 1843, the Hawain flag, by his permis- 
sion, was again restored to its legitimate place — since 
which time, the government has assumed a new aspect. 
The King has removed from the fort to the palace, 
which was lately built for the purpose. He has now, in 
addition to his old government, of chiefs. Dr. Judd — 
formerly Am. missionary — minister of State for the 
interior affairs; John Ricord — a young laiwyer from 
N. Y. — Attorney General; R. C. Wylie, — a Scotch- 
man — formerly English consul — Secretary of State 
for Foreign aflFairs; L. Andrews — formerly Am. mis- 
sionary — Judge of the Supreme Court; Charles Hop- 
kins — a young Englishman — stenographer. J. J. 
Jarvis, of Boston, Government Printer; Robert Boyd 
— an American — High Sheriff. It is expected that 
Boyd will be removed to make room for Henry Lea — 
lately English consul — and Boyd be Superintendent 
of Hotels and Groggeries. Francis Funk — a physi- 
cian — Deputy Sheriff. Although the above offices 
have been made within 2 years, and they all have 
taken the oath of allegiance. I omitted to mention 
above — Mr. Paty, an Am. shipmaster. Collector of 
the Customs; D. P. Penhallow — also a shipmaster 
from Portsmouth N. H. — Harbor Master, and Pilot; 
John Meek — also an Am. shipmaster — Pilot — 
these all come under the allegiance. 

The salary of the minister of the Interior, I believe, 
is $3000.; Sec. of State for Foreign affairs, $2000.; 

C108] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Attorney Gen. $1500. The others, I have not heard 
anything said of. The Supreme Court for all the 
islands sits at Honolulo. The Governor, Kekuanoa, 
was formerly Judge; but the Executive thought it 
best to have an American, to satisfy the foreign resi- 
dents. The Courts are all held at the fort — the 
residence of the Governor. The fort commands the 
entrance to the harbor, and is on the eastern side; 
and has about 60 guns of all sizes, shapes, and con- 
ditions; mounted on old, miserably decayed carriages. 
This is also the prison. There is another small fort, 
on what is called Punch Bowl Hill. Previous to the 
restoration of the flag, the Government was adminis- 
tered by the King and his chiefs; and they, up to 
that time, are notorious for habits of intemperance 
and debauchery. The King and his chiefs would go 
into a common sailor groggery, and get drunk, and 
carouse, and quarrel with the sailors. I am told that 
the taste of the King and his chiefs has not materially 
changed for liquor — as they frequently have a pri- 
vate drunk; although they have all signed the pledge. 
The King, however, preserves more dignity of charac- 
ter than before. 

He has Levies once a week — Thursdays — at the 
palace. I have been rather more fortunate than my 
country-men, generally; as I was presented in due 
form, at a time set by the King, himself. I accord- 
ingly^ arranged myself in court dress — black, of 
course — , and went to the palace, in company with 

[109] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Mr. A , Am. Consul, and lady; and Mr. Stevens 

— Naval Store-keeper — and lady. 

On arriving at the gate of the palace at the ap- 
pointed hour, and as we passed through, the guards 
"presented arms." Arriving at the palace steps, we 
were met by Mr. Wylie, — Sec. of State for Foreign 
affairs — ; who then ushered us into the Audience- 
room, and formally introduced us to the King, all the 
Chiefs, heads of the departments, and Ladies of the 
Court. They were all in their best attire. The King, 
etc. were in full uniform; the Chiefs were fine looking 
men; — Parker, in particular, who is 6 ft. 7 in. high, 
and every way proportioned. The Governor is a fine 
figure; and said to be very intelligent. 

After the ceremony of presentation, we promenaded 
around the room, and talked with the ladies. Chiefs, 
etc. I was quite at home, as there was not a person 
there, with whom I had the least acquaintance; and 
I must say I received much attention; — if anything, 
more than the Consul and Ladies — I am fond of 
attention — and, indeed, passed an hour and a half 
very pleasantly. 

We were each requested to record our names in a 
book, which they handed us; to which we acceded. 
The bed-room, or State-chamber, has a bed-stead of 
mahogany, after the fashion of common American 
high post bed-steads — the posts, handsomely carved. 
The bed-stead was very large, — I should think 8 ft. 
by 10. The coverlid was brought from China; and 

[no] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

cost them $ioo. — made of blue silk — handsomely 
wrought. The palace is a very neat building, about 
20 ft. high; — of one story, with a cupola on top, and 
pillars all round the lower part. 

The Government of the Sandwich Islands is an ab- 
solute Monarchy — the supreme authority is heredi- 
tary. Hereditary rank and authority are not confined 
to the male sex; but are inherited by the females, 
who are generally very discreet and intelligent in their 
management of affairs; and very quick at perception. 
Among the Natives there are 4 distinct classes of 
society. The highest rank includes the King, Queen, 
and all the branches of the reigning family — it also 
includes the chief counsellor; or minister of the King, 
who, though inferior by birth, is, by office and au- 
thority, superior to the Queen and other members of 
the Royal family. 

There are 4 churches in this place — one Bethel, 
built of coral and wood. It is a pretty good building, 
and under the pastoral charge of Rev. S. C. Damon. 
Here, all the strangers and foreign residents attend 
worship; and it is generally well attended. The King's 
Chapel, under the pastoral care of Rev. Mr. Arm- 
strong, is a native church, built of coral, and well at- 
tended. This is a very large church, and the King 
and his Chiefs worship here. I went there one Sab- 
bath — and such an array of ladies' dresses, I never 
saw — some of the women with a satin dress and 
bare-footed. Some of the men with trousers and no 

[in] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

coat; and some with coat and no trousers. It was 
communion day, and there was a great many of the 
natives, who partook of the Sacrament. This church 
and land are inclosed by a mud wall; and in the eastern 
part of the church, is a sort of cemetery, where a 
number of missionaries and their families are buried. 

There is one native church, under the charge of 
Rev. A. B. Smith. This is built of straw, and is well 
attended, and is the first house of worship that was 
built at Honolulo. The fourth is a Roman Catholic 
church, built of coral and is large, and is quite a fine 
edifice. It is under the charge of Abbe Meigret, who 
is called Prefet ApostoHc, and two resident priests — 
it is said to be well attended, and to have cost $35,000. 

There are 2 printing presses here — one belonging 
to the mission. The other is the Government press, 
under the direction of J. J. Jarvis, who is also the 
editor of the "Polynesian" government paper. The 
"Friend" — a semi-monthly paper, is printed at this 
office — S. C Damon, editor. The "Cascade," a 
small temperance paper, is also printed here — S. C. 
Damon, and others, editors. It comes out monthly. 

There are about 3 hotels here. The Mansion 
House, kept by Carter & Thompson, is the best, and 
is a very good house as far as it goes; they set a very 
good table; but have no accommodation for lodgers; 
they charge $6. per week for board alone. There is a 
bar connected with this establishment, at which there 
is a great deal of hquor drank. This house is only 

[112] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

frequented by Ship-Masters, officers of the Navy, and 
resident merchants. The French hotel is a poor con- 
cern. The Canton Hotel is another of the same 
stamp; besides these, there are some sailor grog shops, 
and boarding houses, which they dignify with the 
name of Hotel. 

There are 1 3 wholesale and retail stores, and 1 1 
retail stores. There are 2 auctioneers — all of these 
people have to pay a quarterly Hcense, which is quite 
a tax. The Mansion House pays $37^ per Quarter. 
The Americans, English, and French, have each a 
hospital here. At the Am. Hospital, for board and 
attendance, $3^ per week. The premises of the Am. 
Mission are pretty extensive, and there are generally 
about 15 or 16 missionaries, with their families, re- 
siding here. They certainly are entitled to the credit 
of being the first to advance civilization in these 
Islands. Since 1820, it has progressed very rapidly. 
There are a number of Missionary Stations, Schools, 
etc. at each of these islands. 

The climate of Oahu is not good for those laboring 
under pulmonary, asthmatic, or rheumatic condi- 
tions; but in other respects, it is very healthy. The 
heat never oppresses, except in the sun; and there 
never is a time when a person cannot keep cool, if he 
has a mind. 

One of the greatest curiosities of the Island, is what 
is called "the Pari" by the natives (precipice) — it is 
about 7 or 8 miles north of Honolulo, through Nuani 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Valley. At the top of the precipice, is seen a beauti- 
ful view of gardens, etc. and the sea to the north; 
and I must say, the variety of scenery, here presented, 
is extremely beautiful and picturesque. 

The King's country residence is about half way be- 
tween the town, and the Pari. There are many tales 
of the marvellous told here by the natives; all of 
which are given by Ellis, in his "Polynesian Re- 
searches," Vol. I. — a most excellent work. 

The fruits of the island consist of pine-apples, 
oranges, limes, and most of the fruits common to 
tropical climates. The native apple has not much 
taste; but is very refreshing. Strawberries and rasp- 
berries also grow very large. Water-melons are very 
abundant, and the best I ever saw. 

They have very good beef, for which we pay 6 cts. 
per lb. — fowls $3 per doz.; turkeys — 50 cts. to $1. 
apiece; potatoes, of which the greater part are raised 
in Mani, generally range from $if to $3. per Bbl.; 
sweet potatoes, about 75 cts. a Bbl.; ducks, 50 cts. 
apiece. The flour, which they consume, is brought 
principally from Chili and Columbia River. Most all 
the necessaries of life can be had here at a reasonable 
rate. The best fish is the mullet, kept in the ponds 
of the chiefs, and fattened; and they are indeed de- 
licious. 

I dined, one day, with the Governor, and we had a 
good dinner — served up in our own style. The Gov- 
ernor's wife — his second — , to whom he had been 

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JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

married but a few weeks, sat at table on his right; 
and he frequently reminded her about holding her 
knife, fork, and spoon, etc. She is about 17 years 
old, and is pretty good looking, and very straight. 
All his children by his first wife, are nobly descended; 
their mother being noble. The eldest is now Heir- 
Apparent to the throne. 

A great many, who have signed the temperance 
pledge, think it no sin to once in about 3 or 4 months, 
have a real drunk, which lasts some of them 3 or 4 
weeks; and they keep drunk all the time. 



C"5] 



Description of Manila ■ — Its Inhabit- 
ants. 1846. 

Manila Bay is about the finest in the world — 
most anywhere in it there is anchorage; and the only 
obstruction in it is St. Nicholas Shoal, which is easily 
avoided. In coming in, it is best to go between the 
Haycock and Corregidor, and thence on between the 
latter, and the North Shore. From Corregidor, which 
is the entrance, to Manila, is about 24 miles. 

After coming to anchor, the health boat, and cus- 
tom house boat come off — they examine bill of 
health, and take note of the cargo; and that is 
pretty much all. The Capt. cannot go ashore till 
they give him permission; which they immediately 
do after they have examined the papers. 

At Corregidor, there is a telegraph, which communi- 
cates with Manila. A boat generally comes off from 
there, and gets the report; she leaves and goes back 
to the shore; the signal is there made describing the 
rig of the ship, the flag, number of crew, etc., which 
intelhgence gets to Manila 15 or 20 minutes after. 

2 custom house officers are put on board as soon as 
the ship arrives and remain until the ship is ready to 
depart. They eat in the cabin, and it is pohcy to 

C116] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

keep well with them, as many little things with which 
they have to do, may be wanted as favors; and it is 
customary to make them a present of a few dollars 
on leaving — like the mother-country, a great deal is 
done by bribery at the custom-house. 

Here is a fine canal, where large ships go to heave 
down and repair — it is the best place for that in the 
whole East Indies. The cost to caulk and copper a 
ship here would, I think, be about the same as Bos- 
ton. Copper is much dearer at Manila; but the 
cheapness of labor would nearly make up for it, I 
think. 

The pay of caulkers to work in the canal is 50 cts. 
a day, and the master |i. — in the Bay, 75 cts., and 
the master, $1.50. Sail making is also done very well 
here, and with despatch. Of the ship carpenters, I 
can say but Httle; but I think them to be very ordi- 
nary and slow; if I can judge from what I saw there. 
They are principally natives, or Mustesas. The Mus- 
tesas are the off-spring of Spaniards and native In- 
dians; but what would be called in Calcutta half- 
caste. Blacksmithing seems to be the worst part of 
ship work; there are 2 or 3 Americans here who pre- 
tend to do that business, but they are not sufficiently 
attentive to it; but seem to partake a good deal in 
the indolence, which is customary with people of this 
country. 

Manila City is the capital of Luzon; one of the 
largest of the Phihppine Islands, and the seat of the 

C117] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

Spanish Government in the East. It is large and con- 
venient for trade — the country around producing 
indigo, sugar, tobacco, hemp for cordage, etc. Sugar 
and hemp are the greatest articles of export to the 
U .S.; but the inhabitants around are indolent, and 
not wilHng to do much to cultivate the ground to 
raise these articles unless they are paid in advance. 

During the months of June, July, and August, the 
heat is intense; and the air is rendered impure by 
noxious exhalations, arising from the swampy land 
around; those things, together with much and con- 
tinued rains at times, produce febrile complaints; and 
this is considered the sickly season. Water can be 
had very expeditiously by hiring a casco for $5., which 
will carry from 16 to 18 tons; and send her about 2 
or 3 miles up the river; they go one day and come 
back early the next morning. It is about as good 
water as I have ever seen, and keeps well at sea. 
Astonishing that the families in Manila and suburbs 
should drink rain-water in preference. 

Wood is pretty good here, and not very high; but 
of all things that surprised me most was that they 
raise no potatoes here, when it might be done so 
easily on the sides of the mountains; indeed almost 
all vegetables are scarce here — potatoes almost as 
dear as gold-dust. The pumpkins are small but pretty 
good — sweet potatoes tolerable — yams, dear; fowls 
about $2. per doz. generally — capons $6. pigs reason- 
able; muscovy duck $6.; eggs 12 cts. doz. indeed 

C118] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

poultry is very abundant. Wild ducks are sometimes 
about for sale, and are very fine eating; oysters are 
pretty good flavor; but they have a greenish, un- 
healthy appearance. The beef generally is very poor; 
although I have seen some tolerably fair. There are 
some very fine fish — mullet and many others. The 
turkeys here are very good, and some large at $i. 
apiece; but turkey, to me, in hot chmates, does not 
taste so good as in cold. I did not see a great variety 
of fruit there. Oranges and bananas seemed to be 
the principal ones -^ both very fine. They have the 
mango in the season, which is the most dehcious fruit 
I know of; cocoanuts are also abundant. 

There is some very beautiful and romantic scenery 
at and about Manila — on the river. The Cabrada 
is the great resort for a drive towards evening; here 
is found all the gentry of the city; and among the 
rest, the Ship-masters — particularly American, who 
all keep their carriages. This seems to be the only 
relief they have from the fatigues of a hot, sultry day 
— to drive to the Cabrada, and around the country 
to breathe the soft, inspiring breeze of eventide. Near 
the point of the canal near the beach, the Americans 
and Enghsh would generally make a halt. This is 
called Scandal Point, and the way we went into it — 
scandal — is a caution. I would not be understood by 
any means that is the only place, where scandal holds 
her court; for it can be found almost anywhere in 
Manila. 

[119] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

The place to see the beauties of Manila is at the 
Casena, or public-balls — some of them are very 
pretty. I said public ball; but it is not indeed public, 
but gotten up by subscribers, who are members, and 
they choose a president etc., for the year. On the 
whole it is well gotten up. Each member is allowed 
to invite 2 or 3 others. Of course, I was presented 
with a ticket. 

The population of these islands, under the dominion 
and allegiance of Spain, is about 4,000,000; but there 
are a great many wild negroes about the woods and 
mountains, who are perfectly savage, and never can 
be gotten at. 

I believe these islands were first visited by Magellan. 
The houses in the city are built after the style of the 
houses in Spanish cities; and everything about the 
buildings and streets are like Spanish European cities. 
The interior of the houses, however, differ a little 
to suit the climate — they being more spacious and 
airy. All the gardens of the merchants are situated 
on the margin of the different canals, and the cascos 
can go close to the doors to receive the goods — 
which is very convenient — in fact every facility for 
convenient business is here, except the custom house 
— which is certainly a great obstruction. In my 
opinion, if this were a free port, or only subject to a 
small export duty, it would greatly improve the busi- 
ness of the place, and add to its importance. China 
goods, in consequence of the high duty, are as high 

[120] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

as in Boston. There are several large stores in the 
Escoto — kept and owned by Chinamen, who are 
obhged to become Catholic, where china goods and 
other articles are sold; and there are a great many 
small shops all about the place. The foreign mer- 
chants hve near the water, in one of the suburbs of 
the city — the city proper being inclosed, and only 
entered by gates. This suburb is not so regularly 
built, but some parts are very pleasant. Here are 3 
very large ship-chandler's stores, where most every- 
thing in that line can be had, and I think very reason- 
able — to each of these establishments, there is a 
boarding-house for masters — the masters of course 
expected to patronize the other establishment — 
board $45. a month — carriage $40. a month. There 
is another public-house here, called The Three Na- 
tions, which is exclusively a boarding-house, and pat- 
ronized by some masters, and foreigners generally — 
board $35. a month. 

The troops here seem to be well clothed, and under 
pretty good discipline. The garrison is said to be 
well fortified; having ditches and draw-bridges all 
around. The Cabrada, which I have mentioned be- 
fore, is a beautiful road, with a row of beautiful trees 
on each side, and all through the dry season, it is 
watered towards evening. 

The carriages are drawn by 2 horses — the pos- 
tilion, or coachman, rides the left-hand one; and it is 
always considered proper for the proprietor of the 

[121] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

carriage to sit behind the coachman. There is music 
every evening in good weather in front of the gov- 
ernor's palace, which is quite a spacious building, with 
a large square in front; in the centre of which is a 
monument, to whom or what I don't know. 

The cigar-factory is well worth seeing, and when in 
operation, there are 8000 females constantly employed 
of all ages. They, Hke the native women, generally 
wear a small thin chemise, coming down just below 
the breast; from thence, down to the feet, they have 
a piece of cloth wrapped round them. Their shoes 
have soles, and just enough of the upper leather to get 
2 or 3 toes in. These females are of a copper color. 

At Cavite, there is another cigar-factory, employing 
4000 females. The tobacco here is said to be the best 
in the world. They are very particular about making 
their cigars, and try them all by blowing through them. 

Like all Catholic countries, it is considered policy 
to keep the people in ignorance; here they observe 
all the Holidays, and it is certainly very pernicious to 
the natives, who enter heart and soul into all the 
mummeries. The Feast days, the natives spend their 
time in cock-fighting, which is a very favorite amuse- 
ment; for among the natives, almost every third one 
will be seen hugging one of these animals — carrying 
him to the cock-pit. There are 3 or 4 of these pits 
here, to one of which I went, and was quite disgusted 
with the place and the people. On the whole, the 
natives are infatuated with that worst of vices — 

[122] 



JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

gambling; in which they spend much time, and all 
the money they can get. 

There is a rope-walk here for making patent cord- 
gage, owned by some people in Boston. They make 
good rope, and they ship a good deal to the U. S. and 
I beheve it is a very profitable affair; besides this, 
there are other places where common rope is made, 
which looks pretty well. 

The best sugar here is a httle inferior in quality to 
the Havana Brown. The molasses is considerably 
burnt, and costs about $if. per barrel. It is pretty 
fair, however. 

There are 2 Am. houses here which monopoHze all 
the hemp — Russell, Sturgis & Co. and Peele, Hub- 
bell & Co. — They have an understanding together 
about the division — each has one half. If one of 
them, or either of them, have 3 ships, or more; that 
half must be divided among the ships in just as many 
equal parts as there are ships. Mr. Henry P. Sturgis 
is a native of Boston, and is the Am. consul, and in 
my opinion, an honor to his country, and the office. 
He is deservedly very popular here amongst every- 
body — foreigners and natives. He seems to be a 
frank, open-hearted man, and much of a gentleman 
in his manners. He married an Enghsh lady of Cal- 
cutta. They five in good style, and entertain a good 
deal of company. 

In October, or early November every year, this 
place is visited by a Typhoon, or hurricane, which 

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JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN SOLOMON H. DAVIS 

always does a great deal of damage. The last one 
was Nov. 3rd. The ship, Camera, of Boston, sailed 
that morning, and put back towards evening; and as 
she could not get to the anchorage in Manila Roads 
before it came on, anchored in the middle of the Bay, 
and that night he cut away his masts. He lay there 
from that time till Jan. loth before he was ready for 
sea again. 

No men are allowed to be discharged here, unless 
bonds are given for their good-behavior, and for their 
expenses. When they are discharged, they are sent 
away in some vessel — if possible to Canton, or else- 
where. 

I beheve the Protestants have no place of worship 
— no church — ; so Sunday seems to them like other 
days — only more devoted to amusements, of which 
there are few. 

The principal drink of the foreigners here is beer or 
ale; for which I substituted claret, as being in my 
opinion more wholesome. Beer $3. per doz.; claret 
$6. to $12., according to quality. Brandy is drank a 
great deal — they pretend the water is very unwhole- 
some without it; rather hot drink for the climate. 
Frogs, cow's heels and tails, are frequently served up 
on the tables — the two latter are in great esteem for 
soups, etc. There are fine radishes here. 

Goods are taken to and from ships in lighters — or 
cascos. The cascos carry 420 bags sugar or 125 bales 
hemp. 

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